Construction on President Donald Trump’s highly anticipated $400 million White House ballroom is set to proceed, as a federal judge indicated he is leaning towards denying a preservationist group’s plea to halt the controversial project. The National Trust for Historic Preservation had sought a temporary injunction to block the opulent ballroom’s development, arguing it bypassed essential review processes.

The lawsuit, filed by the National Trust, contends that no president should be permitted to demolish or alter parts of the White House without thorough independent reviews and congressional approval. The group specifically pointed to the demolition of the East Wing as a violation of established federal building practices and historical review protocols.

However, at a Tuesday hearing, U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon expressed skepticism about the preservationists’ claim of irreparable harm should the project continue. He has given the White House two weeks to submit detailed plans for review by the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts.

President Trump publicly praised Judge Leon for his “courage” in making what the president deemed the “proper decision.” During a White House Hanukkah event, Trump also updated the project’s estimated cost to $400 million, up from an earlier $300 million figure, while asserting he could complete it for less.

Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust, stated the organization remains “fully committed to upholding the interests of the American people and advocating for compliance with the law.” She emphasized the need for proper review and public input, underscoring that the dispute is about legal adherence, not the necessity of the ballroom itself.

Government attorneys argued that the National Trust lacks legal standing to sue and that ongoing underground construction is vital for national security, though specifics were not disclosed in open court. Judge Leon cautioned the administration against making irreversible decisions on subterranean elements that could predetermine the scope of above-ground construction.

The ambitious project, which includes a 90,000-square-foot ballroom, commenced with the demolition of the historic East Wing in October. President Trump has stated that the construction will be funded by private donors, with a list of contributors including major tech and crypto companies, as well as prominent individuals.

In response to concerns about potential conflicts of interest and transparency, some lawmakers have proposed legislation. The “Stop Ballroom Bribery Act,” introduced by Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Robert Garcia, aims to enhance oversight of contributions and prohibit donations from individuals with conflicts of interest, as well as from the president and vice president.

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Keywords: Trump White House ballroom, federal judge, National Trust for Historic Preservation, construction lawsuit, East Wing demolition, National Capital Planning Commission, Commission of Fine Arts, Stop Ballroom Bribery Act