A Virginia couple has filed an emergency motion in federal court to stop Donald Trump from demolishing the East Wing of the White House. They said the move violates federal law and was pushed through without the proper review process. The couple claims the plan would damage an important piece of American history.

The Trump administration shared its plans to replace the East Wing with a large new ballroom. They argued the project is within legal rights and will modernize the building’s appearance. Critics believe it skips required steps under the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Capital Planning Act.

Trump and several officials, including the National Park Service director, are named as defendants in the motion. Preservation groups have warned that the demolition could permanently change the look and history of the White House. The issue now sits before a federal judge who will decide whether the work can continue or must be stopped.

Trump’s team has said the project is privately funded by donors and meant to improve the building. They also claim it fits within his authority to make updates to the Executive Mansion. The situation has created new legal questions about how preservation laws apply to the White House itself.

In a letter to federal agencies, the Trust voiced alarm over the size of the planned ballroom. They said it could overwhelm the 55,000-square-foot mansion and upset its balanced classical design. The debate has drawn national attention as people wait to see whether history or modernization wins out.