Preservation group launches legal defense fund as it battles Trump over ballroom and other projects

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has established a legal defense fund to assist in its efforts to prevent President Donald Trump from proceeding with a massive ballroom project at the White House. The organization, which is responsible for safeguarding historic sites, is launching the fund to bolster its legal division and government relations staff.

The fund aims to raise $10 million in three years to protect and preserve America's shared civic and cultural heritage. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has been critical of Trump's plans, which include transforming the East Wing, covering the White House Rose Garden, adding a helipad, and redecorating the Oval Office.

The group recently filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the ballroom project until it undergoes multiple independent reviews and gains congressional approval. Despite the Supreme Court ruling against the group, the organization remains committed to its mission and plans to continue challenging Trump's proposed changes to historic sites and public land.