Preservationists sue to halt White House ballroom
The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed suit in U.S. District Court on Dec. 12, 2025 to stop President Trump’s White House ballroom project, arguing it must undergo design and environmental reviews, public comment, and secure congressional approval. The complaint alleges violations of the Administrative Procedure Act and NEPA and says the president exceeded his constitutional authority by fast‑tracking work after demolishing the East Wing.
📌 Key Facts
- Plaintiff: National Trust for Historic Preservation; venue: U.S. District Court; date: Dec. 12, 2025
- Seeks injunction until comprehensive reviews (NEPA, design), public comments, and congressional ratification are completed
- Alleges APA/NEPA violations and constitutional overreach; White House has not commented
📊 Relevant Data
The East Wing of the White House was built in 1902 and expanded in 1942 to provide space for the First Lady's staff, social functions, and a wartime shelter.
An Ever-Changing White House — White House Historical Association
The White House is exempt from the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, which requires reviews of projects that affect historic buildings.
5 times the White House underwent major renovations — AOL.com
President Harry S. Truman recommended to Congress the creation of a commission to oversee the restoration and renovation of the White House in 1949.
Records of the Commission on the Renovation of the Executive Mansion — Truman Library
A majority of Americans oppose President Donald Trump's plan to replace the White House's East Wing with a ballroom, by a 2-to-1 ratio.
Americans oppose Trump's White House ballroom by 2-to-1 ratio — Politico