Judge Pauses Above-Ground Construction of Trump’s White House Ballroom
A U.S. judge has paused the development of the above-ground section of Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project, while permitting the construction of an underground bunker to continue. In a ruling issued on Thursday, Judge Richard Leon stated that Congress must approve the initiative, suggesting that Trump may be circumventing a prior court order by classifying the ballroom as essential for national security. “National security is not a blank cheque to proceed with otherwise unlawful activity,” the judge noted in his decision.
“No judge can be allowed to stop” the project, Trump asserted on social media, claiming the ballroom was “needed now” and serving as a critical space for future leaders. He criticized the judge for attempting to block “safe and secure large scale Meeting Places” for Presidents and world figures.
Earlier this year, the project faced a temporary pause in March when the same judge ruled that the White House had not followed proper procedures before starting construction. The National Trust for Historic Preservation had sued the administration, arguing that the White House began work without submitting plans to the National Capital Planning Commission, conducting an environmental review, or securing congressional authorization. The group also claimed Trump violated the Constitution by asserting control over federal property without congressional input.
The White House’s blueprint for the ballroom has expanded significantly since its initial proposal. Originally designed for 500 guests, the space now accommodates up to 1,350 people. The project, which is expected to cost $400 million, is entirely funded by private donors. Trump emphasized that the complex includes bomb shelters, medical facilities, and other infrastructure, though details remain sparse.
Victory Arch Gains Preliminary Approval
Meanwhile, a federal panel granted preliminary approval to Trump’s 250-foot victory arch in the nation’s capital, despite widespread public criticism. The structure, nicknamed “Arc de Trump,” would surpass the height of the U.S. Capitol and Lincoln Memorial. It features a golden statue resembling Lady Liberty, complete with a torch and crown. While the National Trust and others voiced opposition, the Commission of Fine Arts—composed largely of Trump allies—supported the design with minor adjustments.
“It’s all tied together as one big, expensive, and very complex unit, vital for National Security and Military Operations,” Trump wrote, highlighting the project’s strategic importance.
The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has allocated $2 million in special funds and $13 million in matching funds to support the arch, according to a public spending plan released by the White House. Trump previously noted that surplus funds from the ballroom project would be used for the arch, underscoring his belief in the interconnectedness of his initiatives. The East Wing, demolished in October to make room for the ballroom, was a historic structure built in 1902.
