A federal judge has ruled that President Donald Trump‘s White House ballroom project may continue—at least for now.
U.S. District Judge Richard Leon has denied the request by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to stop the construction.
“Unfortunately, because both sides initially focused on the President’s constitutional authority to destruct and construct the East Wing of the White House, Plaintiff didn’t bring the necessary cause of action to test the statutory authority the President claims is the basis to do this construction project without the blessing of Congress and with private funds,” Leon wrote in his ruling.
“I have no choice but to deny Plaintiff’s motion for a preliminary injunction for lack of likelihood of success on the merits,” Leon wrote.
The group filed a lawsuit to try to stop construction, but in December 2025, a federal judge ruled construction could continue.
The group appealed, but on Feb. 26, Leon said if the group wants to amend its complaint, he will reconsider.
“The Court will expeditiously consider it and, if viable, address the merits of the novel and weighty issues presented,” Leon wrote.
Trump praised Leon’s Feb. 26 ruling.
“Great news for America, and our wonderful White House! The Judge on the case of what will be the most beautiful Ballroom anywhere in the World, has just thrown out, and completely erased, the effort to stop its construction,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“As everyone knows, not one dollar of Taxpayer money is being spent, but rather, all money necessary to build this magnificent building is being put up by Patriot Donors and Contributors. The Ballroom construction, which is anticipated to also handle future Inaugurations and large State Visits, is ahead of schedule, and under budget. It will stand long into the future as a symbol to the Greatness of America!” Trump posted.
Plans progress
Earlier this month, Trump showed off new renderings of the White House ballroom, which he said is “on budget and ahead of schedule.” The renderings showed off the massive building with columns and grand steps on the side facing away from the White House.
The 90,000-square-foot project, which started in October 2025 during the government shutdown, has ballooned in cost since the president first spoke of his plans last year. The cost has gone from $200 million to $300 million, and now, to $400 million.
The White House said it is being funded by private donors, with the president emphasizing it’s needed to host state dinners, and even future inaugurations, for a larger crowd. The former ballroom sat only about 200 people. The new ballroom is expected to hold nearly 1,000.
