Judge Halts Above-Ground White House Ballroom Construction

Federal judge rules construction requires congressional approval, rejects national security claims.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:21am

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A serene, cinematic painting of the exterior of the White House at dusk, with the iconic building bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of political tension and uncertainty.As a legal battle rages over the White House ballroom project, the historic building stands as a symbol of the ongoing clash between executive power and congressional oversight.Washington Today

A federal judge has ordered a halt to all above-ground construction of a new White House ballroom, rejecting the Trump administration's claims that the project is necessary for national and presidential security. The judge found that the construction requires congressional approval and that national security cannot be used as a 'blank check' to bypass legal requirements.

Why it matters

The White House ballroom project has been a controversial issue, with concerns raised about the lack of congressional oversight and the ballooning costs. This ruling is a significant setback for the Trump administration and could set a precedent for future disputes over presidential powers and construction projects on federal property.

The details

U.S. District Judge Richard Leon issued a preliminary injunction last month halting the $400 million ballroom project, finding that it requires congressional approval. The Trump administration argued that the entire ballroom construction, including above-ground work, fell under a 'safety-and-security exception' in the judge's order, but Leon rejected that claim, calling it 'incredible, if not disingenuous.' The judge said national security is not a 'blank check' to bypass legal requirements.

  • On March 31, Judge Leon issued a preliminary injunction against the ballroom project.
  • On April 17, Judge Leon ordered a halt to all above-ground construction of the ballroom.

The players

Judge Richard Leon

The U.S. District Judge who issued the rulings halting the White House ballroom construction project.

Trump administration

The federal government, led by former President Donald Trump, that was pursuing the White House ballroom construction project.

National Trust for Historic Preservation

The nonprofit organization that filed the initial lawsuit to stop the ballroom construction, arguing it requires congressional approval.

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What they’re saying

“'National security is not a blank check to proceed with otherwise unlawful activity,'”

— Judge Richard Leon, U.S. District Judge

“'We are pleased the court upheld the preliminary injunction and halted above-ground construction of the White House ballroom until Congress approves the project,'”

— Carol Quillen, CEO and president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation

“'This highly political Judge, and his illegal overreach, is out of control, and costing our Nation greatly,'”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

The federal government has filed an appeal against the Thursday ruling, setting up a continued legal battle over the White House ballroom project.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the executive branch's claims of national security powers and the legislative branch's role in overseeing major construction projects on federal property. The judge's ruling underscores the importance of checks and balances, even on high-profile presidential initiatives.