Washington, D.C.,, 13 December (H.S.): Preservationists Launch Lawsuit to Halt Trump's Lavish White House Ballroom Amid Demolition FurorThe National Trust for Historic Preservation, a congressionally chartered nonprofit dedicated to safeguarding America's landmarks, filed a federal lawsuit on Friday against the White House to block President Donald Trump's ambitious ballroom project.

The group contends that the administration unlawfully demolished the historic East Wing in October without mandatory environmental reviews, public consultations, or congressional approval, violating both federal statutes and constitutional provisions on federal property management.

The suit, lodged in a Washington, D.C., federal court, demands an immediate construction freeze until the White House adheres to protocols enforced by the National Capital Planning Commission, including environmental impact assessments and opportunities for public input.

Trust President Carol Quillen emphasized that the White House, as the most evocative building in our country and a globally recognized symbol of American ideals, warrants rigorous protection, noting that the site has transformed into a bustling construction zone complete with cranes, heavy machinery, and round-the-clock activity.

The Trump administration dismissed the challenge, asserting in a statement that the president possesses full legal authority to modernize, renovate, and beautify the White House, much like his predecessors. Originally envisioned as a 500-guest venue funded by private donors, the ballroom's blueprint has since ballooned to accommodate 1,350 people, prompting the recent replacement of the lead architect following reported clashes over its expansive scope.

Speaking Thursday at the Congressional Ball, Trump vowed to complete the project before his 2028 departure, boasting that it would eclipse any prior attempts over the past 150 years. This marks the first significant legal hurdle for the initiative, which the White House previously pledged would undergo proper scrutiny—commitments the lawsuit alleges have been ignored.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar