Eisenhower Building Paint Tests Approved

A federal judge allowed limited paint testing on the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House as part of President Donald Trump’s plan to repaint it white, with tests covering about 8 square feet. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich does not authorize a full repaint and she warned she would intervene if testing moved beyond the limited scope. Preservationists and historians warn painting granite could trap moisture and damage the landmark, and had sought emergency relief to stop testing. The plan carries an estimated cost of at least $7.5 million, and the litigation centers on whether the General Services Administration can delegate project authority to the Executive Office of the President. The judge ordered status reports and regular updates, with the parties to report by a specified deadline, while noting that a broader dispute remains. President Trump has criticized the building's current gray exterior as unattractive and has advocated beautifying the capital, which underpins the ongoing tests.