Judge Allows White House Ballroom Project to Proceed as Preservation Group Plans New Legal Challenge

A federal judge has ruled that construction on the White House ballroom project can move forward, rejecting an attempt by National Trust for Historic Preservation to block the development — at least for now.

The preservation group had sued the Trump administration, arguing the large-scale construction should not proceed without congressional approval and formal review by federal planning bodies. The group sought a preliminary injunction to halt work while the legal challenge moved forward.

Senior U.S. District Judge Richard Leon denied that request, concluding the legal strategy used in the lawsuit was not appropriate for challenging the project. The judge determined that the White House offices overseeing the construction are not federal agencies subject to the Administrative Procedure Act — the law the group relied on in its case.

However, Leon indicated the preservation group may be able to revive its challenge by restructuring its legal claims and directly questioning presidential authority under a different legal framework.

The ballroom project, personally overseen by President Donald Trump, is expected to span roughly 89,000 square feet — significantly larger than the existing Executive Mansion. Plans call for the space to host major events such as state visits and future inaugurations.

The lawsuit has already forced the administration to release new details about the project, including design plans and construction timelines, following demolition of the East Wing.

The National Trust says it intends to amend its complaint and continue pursuing legal action.

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