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Trump's Ballroom Project Advances Amid Controversy Over Appointments

KVIA•Friday, January 16, 2026 at 8:24 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The Trump administration has appointed four new members to the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), a crucial step towards advancing the controversial White House ballroom project. This comes as the National Trust for Historic Preservation seeks to halt construction, claiming it requires further review and congressional approval. The new CFA members, including former NEA chair Mary Anne Carter and architect James McCrery, are seen as potential allies for the president's plans. A court hearing is set for February 19 regarding the project, which has faced scrutiny over its implications for historic preservation. The Justice Department argues that Congress has historically allowed the president discretion over such renovations.

Key Details: • Court hearing on the ballroom project scheduled for February 19. • New CFA members appointed include Mary Anne Carter and Roger Kimball. • Underground construction is currently underway, with above-ground work on hold until at least April. • Justice Department claims Congress has not required prior approval for similar projects.

historic-preservation trump construction white-house cfa

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpJustice DepartmentMatthew TaylorWashington, DCWhite HouseCommission of Fine ArtsJames McCreryMary Anne CarterRoger KimballHeather MartinRichard LeonJoshua FisherMatthew QuinnNational Trust for Historic Preservation

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