“Trump’s lawyers have argued that the ballroom and other temporary measures are needed for “the safety and security” of the president, his family and others, according to the decision.”

“U.S. District Judge Richard Leon had previously sided with a preservation group that challenged the demolition and planned reconstruction of the East Wing of the White House, finding that the president needed congressional approval for the massive, $400 million project.”

“The administration had argued in a court filing that it’s a matter of national security for the construction to proceed at full steam, saying the “ballroom is clearly a vital project for the safety and security of the White House and the President, his family, and his staff.””

“It also said Congress has no role in the construction.”

“The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which is challenging the project, told the appeals court in a filing that congressional approval is required for construction projects on federal property — and that the administration’s security concerns are overblown.”

“Leon, a George W. Bush appointee, issued the preliminary injunction after finding the trust was “likely to succeed on the merits because no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have.””

“When he first announced the project, he said it wouldn’t “interfere” with the current building, but he then had the East Wing demolished, saying it was not in good shape and needed to be torn down and modernized.”