White House: Court allows Trump's ballroom construction to proceed for now

The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily allowed construction to continue on Donald Trump's controversial ballroom project at the White House. Chief Justice John Roberts issued an order suspending a lower court's halt on the building, which is expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

The temporary stay remains in effect until the Supreme Court makes a final decision on the case. Previously, an appeals court had ruled that Trump could not proceed with the construction without congressional approval, mandating a stop to the work.

Preservationists had taken the U.S. government to court to block Trump's "prestige project." The ballroom has faced significant opposition due to its cost, the bidding process, and its potential impact on the historic White House complex. Trump and his team argue the ballroom is necessary for national security, providing a secure venue for presidential events and enhancing overall site protection. Construction began in the fall of 2025 on the site of the former East Wing.