A Virginia couple has filed a motion in Washington federal court, asking a judge to block President Donald Trump from demolishing part of the White House’s East Wing without proper approvals or reviews. Charles and Judith Voorhees claim that the demolition violates several laws, including the National Capital Planning Act and the National Historic Preservation Act.
The lawsuit alleges that the demolition occurred “without legally required approvals or reviews.” However, some argue that an exemption in one of these laws may exempt the White House from certain requirements.
It’s unclear whether the couple has sufficient grounds to pursue their challenge. The Voorhees’ interest in the matter is largely driven by concerns about the preservation of historic buildings and processes being followed properly.
In response to the lawsuit, the White House claims that the ballroom project complies with all necessary laws and regulations, as did previous presidents in modernizing and renovating the White House.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/23/east-wing-white-house-demolition-00620974