Trump asks Supreme Court for ballroom
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The gist
Trump asked the Supreme Court to let his $400 million White House ballroom construction continue. The appeal challenges a lower court's order to halt work pending congressional approval.
Background
The Trump administration has been building a new ballroom and related facilities at the White House East Wing without congressional approval. A federal appeals court ruled the project lacked the necessary authorization and ordered a halt, but the administration argues it is vital for national security and presidential safety. The Supreme Court is now asked to intervene before the injunction takes effect.
How it unfolded
- Aug 7, 2026The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upheld an injunction blocking construction, ruling the White House lacked authority to build without congressional approval.
- Aug 14, 2026The Trump administration asked the Supreme Court for an emergency stay to allow construction to continue while it appeals.
- Aug 21, 2026The appeals court's injunction is set to take effect unless the Supreme Court intervenes.
Who’s saying what
- Administration
- The ballroom is a national security necessity, and halting construction would endanger the president and others.
- Appeals Court
- National security arguments are not an automatic get-out-of-law-free card; the project requires congressional approval.
Still unverified
The administration claims the project includes bomb shelters and drone shields, but these details are not independently confirmed.