Miami Residents File Lawsuit to Block Trump’s Presidential Library on Illegal Land Deal

Miami residents have filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, alleging that the land transaction for his presidential library violated the domestic emoluments clause of the U.S. Constitution. The suit demands the cancellation of the land sale to Trump’s foundation for just $10, arguing that the three-acre plot in Downtown Miami is worth over $300 million.

The lawsuit, filed by Miami residents, targets the Miami Dade College Board of Trustees and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who approved the sale. According to the complaint, the land—located in a prime waterfront location—would likely fetch over $300 million on the open market. However, Trump’s foundation acquired it for $10.

The plaintiffs also argue that the project would disrupt their lives through increased traffic and noise pollution. A key point of contention is Trump’s public statements revealing his intention to use the land for a hotel rather than a presidential library. The lawsuit states:

“[The land] is no longer available to serve MDC’s student community and Downtown Miami. Instead, the land will house a Trump hotel that brings riches to the President.”

This legal challenge follows a New Republic report that four major companies—Meta, X, ABC, and Paramount—pledged tens of millions of dollars to the library project. However, the funds appear to have disappeared, raising further scrutiny over a project that has yet to break ground.

Critics have also mocked the proposed design of the Trump Presidential Library, calling it gaudy and excessive. AI-generated concept art depicts an ostentatious skyscraper in Downtown Miami featuring:

• Two massive gold statues of the former president
• Outdoor patios with palm trees
• Full-size planes and fighter jets displayed indoors
• A large ballroom and a replica of the Oval Office
• Gold accents throughout the structure