The project, discussed by past administrations, would allow officials to more easily shut Lafayette Square for security reasons, sparking concerns over public access.
While clear evidence of wrongdoing could harm Newsom’s presidential ambitions, Democratic voters could rally around the California governor if they see the investigation as politically motivated.
Trump-endorsed candidates won Senate runoffs in Georgia and Alabama, but in a rare defeat, the president’s pick for Georgia governor failed to advance.
The president was set to leave France — until he was invited to the palace that has inspired his construction projects, including the White House ballroom.
A top Justice Department official said the ballroom’s planned “Drone Port and Sniper Nests” would have been able to “destroy any effort” to attack the UFC event.
The president linked the move to his efforts to pass voting restrictions and said Jay Clayton’s hearing would be delayed until his replacement as U.S. attorney is confirmed.
Brazilian MMA star Alex Pereira has accused Frenchman Cyril Gane of landing multiple “illegal shots” during their fight for the interim UFC heavyweight title at the White House