Donald Trump turns to Supreme Court after $400m White House ballroom project blocked
A federal appeals court has ordered the Trump administration to halt construction on a $400 million ballroom at the White House, ruling that the project requires congressional approval. The administration plans to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, citing security needs.
Why it matters
The case serves as a significant test of presidential authority and the limits of executive power regarding the modification of federal property.
US President Donald Trump holds an image of a rendering of the new White House ballroom in October 2025. ( Reuters: Kevin Lamarque )
The Trump administration has been ordered to stop construction on a $400 million ballroom on the site of the White House's demolished East Wing.
The federal appeals court says it is a matter for Congress to decide and that each president is only a temporary tenant.
With 14 days to allow for an appeal, Mr Trump says the decision must be overturned by the Supreme Court.
Link copied Share Share article A federal appeals court has ordered Donald Trump's administration to stop construction on a $400 million ballroom on the site of the White House's demolished East Wing, dealing the Republican leader a major setback in a case testing his presidential authority.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in