Judge Halts White House Ballroom Construction

Ruling blocks Trump administration's $400 million project to build new ballroom on the White House grounds.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:20am

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A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to suspend construction of a $400 million ballroom that would be built by demolishing the East Wing of the White House. The judge ruled that the president does not have the authority to undertake such a major renovation without congressional approval, siding with a preservationist group that sued to halt the project.

Why it matters

The judge's decision marks the first major rebuke of President Trump's efforts to significantly overhaul the White House, which have included a number of controversial renovations and additions. The ruling raises questions about the extent of the president's power to unilaterally make changes to the historic presidential residence.

The details

U.S. District Judge Richard Leon granted a preliminary injunction requested by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, concluding that the group is likely to succeed on the merits of its claims. The judge said 'no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have' to construct the massive ballroom project. Construction crews had already demolished the East Wing to make way for the planned 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which the White House said would be funded by private donations.

  • The judge's ruling came two days before the National Capital Planning Commission was expected to approve the ballroom addition.
  • The judge suspended enforcement of his order for 14 days, acknowledging the administration is likely to appeal the decision.

The players

Richard Leon

A U.S. District Judge in Washington, D.C. who was nominated to the bench by Republican President George W. Bush.

National Trust for Historic Preservation

A preservationist group that filed the lawsuit to halt the White House ballroom construction project.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who initiated the $400 million ballroom project at the White House.

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What they’re saying

“The President of the United States is the steward of the White House for future generations of First Families. He is not, however, the owner!”

— Richard Leon, U.S. District Judge

“We are pleased with Judge Leon's ruling today to order a halt to any further ballroom construction until the Administration complies with the law and obtains express authorization to go forward.”

— Carol Quillen, President and CEO, National Trust for Historic Preservation

“Doesn't make much sense, does it?”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

The Trump administration has filed a notice of appeal, and the judge has suspended enforcement of the order for 14 days to allow for the appeal process.

The takeaway

This ruling represents a significant check on the president's power to unilaterally make major changes to the White House, a historic and iconic national symbol. It raises broader questions about the limits of executive authority when it comes to altering or renovating federal property.