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A federal judge on Tuesday, March 31, blocked former President Donald Trump from moving forward with construction of a proposed $400 million ballroom at the White House.
In his ruling, Judge Richard Leon stated that the president cannot unilaterally approve such a major project without congressional consent. “The President of the United States is the steward of the White House for future generations of First Families. He is not, however, the owner!” Leon wrote.
The judge delayed enforcement of the ruling for two weeks to allow for an appeal, warning that any construction during that period not in compliance with the order could be removed depending on the case’s outcome. The Trump administration immediately signaled its intention to appeal.
At the center of the dispute is whether the president can authorize a large-scale development without Congress. Leon concluded that federal law requires congressional approval before construction can proceed. “Unless and until Congress authorizes this project through legislation, construction has to stop,” he wrote, adding that Trump and lawmakers could still collaborate to move the project forward legally.
Trump, a former real estate developer, has been personally involved in the ballroom’s design, including layout and material choices. He recently described the project as potentially “the greatest ballroom anywhere in the world.” The planned ballroom would span about 89,000 square feet—significantly larger than the White House’s main Executive Mansion, which measures roughly 55,000 square feet.
The president has argued the project does not require oversight and aimed to complete it by summer 2028.
The lawsuit was filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which argued the administration acted unlawfully by proceeding without congressional approval. The organization hailed the ruling as a victory for the American public.
Judge Leon also emphasized that Congress retains authority over federal property and spending, noting that lawmakers could still approve or fund the project if they choose.
