Trump's ballroom project can continue for now, court says

"In his opinion Leon wrote that he wasn't making a determination on the merits because of the way the suit had been framed. He concluded, saying that if the group were to amend its complaint 'the Court will expeditiously consider it and, if viable, address the merits of the novel and weighty issues presented.'"

"While we are disappointed that the Court did not issue the preliminary injunction, we were pleased that Judge Leon ruled that the National Trust has standing to bring this lawsuit, as we have asserted from the start. We are also pleased that he encouraged us to amend our complaint—specifically, to assert that the President has acted beyond his statutory authority—and we plan to do so promptly."

"The National Trust for Historic Preservation argued the president hadn't followed proper procedure in tearing down the East Wing of the White House and soliciting private donations to fund the $300-million ballroom."

A US District Court judge ruled that the National Trust for Historic Preservation could proceed with a revised lawsuit challenging President Trump's $300-million White House ballroom project. The judge denied the group's request for a preliminary injunction to stop construction of the East Wing renovation, but determined the group has legal standing to sue. The judge indicated he would expeditiously consider a revised complaint if the group amends its filing to address whether the president exceeded his statutory authority. The National Trust expressed disappointment with the ruling but stated it would promptly file an amended complaint to continue challenging the project's legality.

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