Trump Administration Claims Authority to Demolish Iconic Structures Amid Legal Battle
Trump Admin Says They Could Raze The Statue Of Liberty If They Wanted, And You Can’t Stop Them
Image: Huffpost
During a court hearing, a lawyer for the Trump administration suggested that the government could demolish the Statue of Liberty without public recourse, highlighting the administration's stance on national security. This statement arises amid a legal challenge regarding the construction of a new ballroom at the White House.
- 01The Trump administration's lawyer, Yaakov Roth, stated that the government could quickly demolish the Statue of Liberty without public opposition.
- 02The National Trust for Historic Preservation is suing to halt the construction of a new White House ballroom, claiming it violates federal law.
- 03A lower court previously blocked construction of the above-ground portion, but the appellate court allowed work to continue pending a final decision.
- 04The administration argues that national security justifies its actions, even if they bypass congressional approval.
- 05The Trust's legal team emphasizes the importance of congressional authority over federal property construction.
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In a recent appellate court hearing, a lawyer representing the Trump administration, Yaakov Roth, controversially claimed that the government could demolish the Statue of Liberty without facing legal challenges, suggesting that rapid government action could preclude public input. This statement emerged during discussions about the construction of a new 90,000-square foot ballroom at the White House, which the National Trust for Historic Preservation is attempting to block. The Trust argues that the project violates federal law, specifically 40 USC 8106, which mandates congressional approval for any construction on federal land in Washington, D.C. Despite a lower court's decision to halt the above-ground portion of the project, the appellate court allowed construction to proceed while it reviews the case. Roth contended that the administration's national security needs grant it the authority to continue, even if Congress or the courts oppose the project. The Trust's representatives maintain that the construction harms historical integrity and must be stopped until Congress can weigh in on the matter.
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The ongoing construction at the White House raises concerns about the preservation of historical sites and the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress.
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