Trump’s US$400m East Wing ballroom plan faces lawsuit, White House to unveil plans in January
Summary
President Donald Trump’s ambitious plan to construct a US$400 million ballroom at the East Wing of the White House is encountering legal challenges and criticism. Preservationists, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation, have filed a lawsuit to halt construction, arguing the 90,000 square foot ballroom would overwhelm the existing 55,000 square foot White House. Democratic lawmakers have also voiced concerns, labeling the project an abuse of power and investigating its funding sources. The National Capital Planning Commission will receive an information presentation on the plans on January 8th, but has so far declined to review the demolition and site preparation. Despite the controversy, Trump is actively involved in the project, viewing it as part of broader efforts to renovate the White House and the capital city in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. A judge previously declined a temporary restraining order, citing the lack of finalized specifications, with another hearing scheduled for next month.
(Source:Malay Mail)