A federal appeals court has upheld a lower court's injunction blocking construction of a ballroom at the White House, according to The New York Times. The ruling, reported on Friday, means the project cannot proceed without congressional approval.
The decision stems from a legal challenge to the construction, which the court found to be unlawful. According to the Associated Press, the appeals court determined that President Trump does not have the authority to build the ballroom without the consent of Congress. The court's ruling affirms that the project violates existing legal requirements.
The case is now expected to move to the Supreme Court, as reported by the BBC. The appeals court's decision sets the stage for a potential showdown at the nation's highest court over the scope of presidential authority regarding the White House grounds.
The ballroom project has been a point of contention, with legal experts and opponents arguing that the construction oversteps executive power. CNN reports that the appeals court explicitly stated the construction is being done unlawfully, reinforcing the need for legislative approval.
This ruling is a significant setback for the administration's plans, which have been paused since the initial injunction was issued. The White House has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, but the BBC's report suggests that a legal battle at that level is likely.
The core issue centers on the separation of powers, specifically whether the president can authorize major construction projects on the White House property without input from Congress. The appeals court's decision firmly sides with the requirement for legislative oversight.
What to watch next: Whether the administration files an appeal with the Supreme Court, which would determine the final fate of the ballroom project.
