White House ballroom construction was ordered to stop by a federal appeals court on Friday, a decision that Donald Trump condemned as a “National Security Threat at the highest level” in a post on Truth Social.
In his message, Trump argued presidents have the right to “fix, renovate, secure, protect, and beautify” the executive residence and grounds. He said the ruling came after much of the work was completed and paid for, and reiterated that the $400 million project, including a 90,000-square-foot ballroom he has described as a gift to the American people, is necessary.
White House ballroom construction challenged by preservationists
The Washington-based US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld a preliminary injunction obtained by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, according to court filings. The group sued last year after the administration demolished the historic East Wing and began building the new venue without first seeking authorization from Congress.
The appellate panel’s order is on hold for two weeks to allow the administration time to seek review by the US Supreme Court.
In March, US District Judge Richard Leon wrote that while incomplete work raises concerns about the “safety and security of the White House grounds and the President himself,” the presence of a “large hole” beside the building is a problem of the president’s own making.
Following Friday’s ruling, Trump said his administration would immediately appeal to the Supreme Court. He also defended the broader complex in development, which he has promoted as enhancing security and ceremonial functions at the residence.