Image: WTOP

Judge Blocks Trump White House Ballroom, Rules Congress Must Approve

31 March, 2026.USA.40 sources

Key Takeaways

Federal judge blocked White House ballroom construction, halting work until Congress authorizes funding.
National Trust for Historic Preservation sued; injunction granted.
Project estimated at about $400 million and involved demolition of the East Wing.

Judge Halts Ballroom

A federal judge temporarily blocked Trump's $400 million ballroom project.

“Skip to main content Updated 20 mins ago - Politics & Policy Trump's White House ballroom project halted by judge Avery Lotz, Rebecca Falconer email (opens in new window) sms (opens in new window) facebook (opens in new window) twitter (opens in new window) linkedin (opens in new window) bluesky (opens in new window) Add Axios as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google”

Axios

The National Trust sued, arguing Trump exceeded his authority.

BBC

Judge Leon wrote the president is the steward, not the owner of the White House.

The ruling takes effect in 14 days, allowing time to appeal.

East Wing Demolished, Designs Released

The East Wing was demolished to make way for the ballroom.

Trump has been personally involved in design details.

BBC

The project is intended to fit nearly 1,000 guests.

It will be funded by private donations.

Judge Cites Lack of Congressional Approval

Leon ruled Trump lacked legal authority to proceed without Congress.

“Judge temporarily halts construction of Trump's White House ballroom A US judge has temporarily prevented President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom construction project from continuing, ruling that proper procedures were not followed before the project began”