A federal appeals court on Friday ordered the Trump administration to stop construction on a White House ballroom, ruling that the project requires congressional approval to proceed. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit issued a 2-1 decision stating that the executive branch cannot authorize such a project without the consent of Congress. The court stayed its order for two weeks to allow the administration time to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court.
The legal dispute began in December after the National Trust for Historic Preservation sued the administration to halt work that started in October. The project involved the demolition of the East Wing to make way for a structure estimated to cover 90,000 square feet and accommodate 1,000 guests. While the administration initially projected a $200 million cost, reports based on contractor invoices have indicated the total could reach at least $600 million.
President Trump stated on Friday that his administration will appeal the ruling immediately, describing the court's decision as politically motivated and unlawful. He noted that the two judges in the majority were appointed by Democratic presidents and argued that the project is vital for national security. The administration has stated that the construction includes a complex military facility beneath the ballroom featuring bomb shelters, medical facilities, and drone-proof structures.
The decision establishes a legal boundary regarding the President's authority to renovate or expand the White House without legislative oversight. The administration argues that blocking the work "severely jeopardizes the lives and welfare" of those working at or visiting the complex. Conversely, historic preservationists argue the ruling protects the public's right to have a voice in changes made to national landmarks. The outcome of this case may influence how future administrations approach infrastructure projects on historic federal grounds and the degree of transparency required for security-related construction.
What happens next depends on the Supreme Court. The D.C. Circuit's stay expires in two weeks, at which point the halt on above-ground construction would take full effect unless the high court intervenes. The administration has already signaled its intent to file an immediate appeal. Meanwhile, other related construction projects, such as a proposed triumphal arch, continue to face separate legal challenges from the National Park Service and preservation groups.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation called the ruling a victory for the American people’s right to voice opinions on historic places. Senate Republicans had previously attempted to include $1 billion for ballroom security in a May immigration bill but removed the funding following bipartisan opposition. It remains unknown how the administration will fund the project if congressional approval is required but not granted.