The Supreme Court is allowing President Donald Trump to press on with his White House ballroom project — over a strident objection from Chief Justice John Roberts and the court's liberal wing.
The justices' 5-4 ruling maintains the high court's hold on a federal appeals court ruling that called for a halt to the project after concluding it lacked approval from Congress.
In an unsigned order Monday, the Supreme Court's majority said a historic preservation group that sued over the project appeared to lack legal standing, while national security concerns favored allowing the construction to continue. The majority did not opine on whether the project is legal.
Writing for the dissenters, Roberts said the project is "likely unlawful."
"The White House is an iconic American building whose symbolism and history are wrapped up in its architecture," Roberts wrote, adding that it is critical to "ensure that those responsible follow the rules in deciding what to tear down and what to build up at the People's House."
#roberts
The justices' 5-4 ruling maintains the high court's hold on a federal appeals court ruling that called for a halt to the project after concluding it lacked approval from Congress.
In an unsigned order Monday, the Supreme Court's majority said a historic preservation group that sued over the project appeared to lack legal standing, while national security concerns favored allowing the construction to continue. The majority did not opine on whether the project is legal.
Writing for the dissenters, Roberts said the project is "likely unlawful."
"The White House is an iconic American building whose symbolism and history are wrapped up in its architecture," Roberts wrote, adding that it is critical to "ensure that those responsible follow the rules in deciding what to tear down and what to build up at the People's House."
#roberts
8 days ago
