Judge Allows Trump’s Ballroom Project at the White House to Proceed
A federal judge has dismissed a preservation group’s effort to halt President Donald Trump’s proposed $400 million ballroom project planned for the east wing of the White House.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon ruled against the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP), stating that the White House is not considered a government agency. Moreover, the lawsuit did not present a sufficient case for judicial review.
“Unfortunately, both sides initially concentrated on the President’s constitutional authority regarding the East Wing, leading the plaintiffs to overlook necessary legal grounds to question his alleged authority to proceed with this privately funded construction without Congressional consent,” Leon noted.
President Trump celebrated the ruling on Truth Social, labeling it “great news for America.”
“The judge in what would become the world’s most beautiful ballroom has abandoned efforts to prevent its construction and erased it,” he stated.
The President further countered claims suggesting taxpayer funds are involved in the project, emphasizing that it aligns with his vow to reduce government expenditure, funded instead by donations.
“As everyone knows, not a single dollar of taxpayer money has been spent. All funding for this great building has been raised by patriotic donors,” he stated.
He reiterated that the ballroom is intended for hosting significant events at the White House.
“Construction of the ballroom, meant for future inauguration ceremonies and major state visits, is progressing ahead of schedule and on budget,” he remarked. “It will stand as a symbol of American greatness for years!”
Currently, foreign delegations and state visits utilize a makeshift setup on the White House lawn, often including portable facilities—a situation Trump finds “embarrassing.” This new venue, spanning 90,000 square feet and designed to accommodate up to 650 people, aims to eliminate the need for what White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt refers to as “big, ugly tents.”
“Why didn’t these disruptors file baseless lawsuits sooner?” Trump questioned in January. “Congress never tried to stop the Ballroom Project! Everyone was aware of what was happening in the White House. A tremendous gift to the United States!”
The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a nonprofit organization focused on safeguarding America’s historical sites, faces challenges due to the fact that the White House was originally intended as the president’s private residence and has seen numerous constructions and renovations throughout its history.
