Judge rules paint tests on Eisenhower Building can proceed, advancing Trump’s makeover plans for now

A federal district judge granted permission on Tuesday for paint tests to commence on the 19th-century Eisenhower Executive Office Building, near the White House, advancing President Donald Trump's plans to repaint the historic landmark. The judge, Dabney L. Friedrich, ruled that the tests could proceed, stating that plaintiffs had not demonstrated irreparable harm could occur from the limited tests.

Trump aims to paint the building as part of a broader effort to refurbish and enhance the capital. However, preservationists, architects, and historians oppose the paint job, arguing that granite should not be painted and that paint could trap moisture and harm the stone. The proposed project is estimated to cost at least $7.5 million.

U.S. District Judge Friedrich emphasized that while she permitted the tests to proceed, she would not hesitate to intervene if the administration extended the work beyond the specified tests. The judge expressed concern about the broader implications of the case, which could impact historic properties nationwide if the president's actions are deemed unconstitutional.