Justice Dept. Cites Shooting to Push Preservationists to Drop Trump Ballroom Suit
The US Justice Department, citing a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, has demanded the National Trust for Historic Preservation drop its lawsuit against the construction of a $400 million ballroom on the former East Wing site of the White House. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche posted a letter on Sunday giving the preservation group until 9am Monday to dismiss the suit, warning that otherwise the government would seek court dismissal due to the Washington Hilton being "demonstrably unsafe" for presidential events. The ballroom, which Trump claims will fit 999 people, is intended to ensure presidential security and prevent future assassination attempts. The National Trust sued in December after the East Wing was demolished, arguing against the project's legality. Trump says private donations fund the ballroom, but public money covers bunker and security upgrades.
Key facts
- US Justice Department cites shooting at White House Correspondents' Dinner to pressure preservationists.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche gave National Trust for Historic Preservation until 9am Monday to dismiss lawsuit.
- Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate wrote letter threatening court dismissal if suit not dropped.
- Shumate called Washington Hilton 'demonstrably unsafe' for presidential events.
- Ballroom will fit 999 people and is intended to ensure presidential security.
- National Trust sued in December after East Wing demolition.
- Trump says ballroom funded by private donations; public money pays for bunker and security upgrades.
- Elliot Carter, National Trust spokesman, said group will review letter with legal counsel.
Entities
Institutions
- US Justice Department
- National Trust for Historic Preservation
- White House
- Secret Service
- Washington Hilton
Locations
- Washington, D.C.
- United States