CNN host fact-checks testy Republican strategist over Trump pet project ruling

CNN host Abby Phillip brutally fact-checked a testy Republican strategist during "NewsNight" on Tuesday.

The panel discussed a recent ruling by a federal judge requiring the Trump administration to get Congressional approval before continuing construction of President Donald Trump's signature ballroom. Joe Borelli, the former Republican leader of New York City's City Council, argued that the judge got it wrong because Trump is not asking for Congress to approve an expenditure of tax money.

Phillip dismantled Borelli's argument by reminding him that he was inaccurately stating what the judge had ordered.

"40 U.S.C. § 8106. Buildings on reservations, parks, or public grounds," Phillip quoted from the opinion. "A building or a structure shall not be erected on any reservation, park, or public ground of the federal government in the District of Columbia without the express authority of Congress."

"So, it doesn't say anything about funding. It says you cannot build without Congress permitting it," she continued. "And that's what the judge is actually saying. It has nothing to do with the money ... It's a separation of powers issue."

During a press conference on Tuesday, Trump said his administration would appeal the ruling halting construction of the ballroom. The president also said the judge was "completely wrong" in his ruling.