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TDS AT WORK… On March 31, 2026, U.S. District Judge Richard J Leon issued a preliminary injunction temporarily blocking the construction of a 90,000-square-foot ballroom on the White House grounds. The ruling halts the project to replace the demolished East Wing, stating the Trump administration likely lacked the authority to build it without Congressional approval. Key details regarding the lawsuit and ruling: Lawsuit Background: The National Trust for Historic Preservation and other organizations sued, arguing the administration failed to follow federal guidelines and lacked legal authority for the $400 million project. Judge's Ruling: Judge Leon noted that "no statute" authorized the President to launch such a massive construction project without Congress. He famously stated the President is "steward" of the White House, "not the owner!". Project Impact: The order stops further site preparation and construction, though the administration quickly filed an appeal. Status: The injunction stops above-ground construction, but allows necessary security-related work to continue.