Judge Extends Ban on White House Ballroom Renovation, Trump Enraged

WASHINGTON (CNA) – Federal Judge Richard Leon today extended an injunction against former U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to renovate the White House ballroom, though he allowed underground bunker construction to continue. Trump was extremely displeased with the judge's ruling, criticizing Judge Leon on his 'Truth Social' platform as 'highly politicized' and 'out of control.' Leon is a judge appointed by former Republican President George W. Bush. Trump stated: 'This is a mockery of our justice system... The ballroom is about our national security, and no judge can stop this historic and military security-related project.' Trump's $400 million ballroom renovation plan had led to the sudden demolition of the White House's historic East Wing, including what was once the First Lady's office. Leon ordered in late March that the White House East Wing ballroom expansion project must immediately cease, ruling that the case required congressional approval. The White House subsequently appealed. On April 11, the Federal Court of Appeals ruled to 'temporarily extend' the construction permit, allowing the project to temporarily resume while security concerns were clarified. Leon, in a revised order announced today, further extended his injunction, temporarily prohibiting the construction of a large ballroom at the original site of the White House East Wing. However, underground facilities for national security purposes can continue construction. Leon said: 'Underground work can continue, including the construction of any 'top-secret tunnels, bunkers, air-raid shelters, protective compartments, military facilities, and medical and hospital facilities.'' (Compiler: Chi Chin-ling) 1150417