Supreme Court Petitioned Over White House Ballroom Construction
The Trump administration has approached the U.S. Supreme Court to seek approval for ongoing construction of a $400 million ballroom at the White House. The request follows a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to halt work. Chief Justice John Roberts has set a deadline for a response from the challengers of the ballroom project.
Appeals Court Decision
A divided panel from the appeals court ruled that the construction should stop because Congress hasn’t approved the project. The ruling highlighted that President Trump does not hold the sole authority to build the 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which replaces the East Wing that Trump ordered demolished last year. The decision is temporarily on hold, allowing the administration to appeal.
Administration’s Argument
Solicitor General D. John Sauer argues that halting the construction affects national security, emphasizing the need for a secure space within the ballroom. A court filing cites a prior missile threat against Air Force One, reinforcing the need for a secure environment. The administration claims the project is progressing on time and within budget, funded by private donations. Meanwhile, Democrats express concerns that tax cut funds may be supporting the project.
Congressional Approval and Legal Battles
While the administration seeks more congressional funding, lawmakers have not yet approved it. Earlier, a district court permitted underground construction but stopped aboveground work. This decision was upheld by the appeals panel, siding with preservationists opposing the ballroom’s construction without congressional input.
“Whether or not a massive ballroom should be constructed is for Congress to decide and is not a matter for Executive self-help,” said the court majority, appointed by Democratic presidents.
Judge Neomi Rao, appointed by Trump, dissented, arguing the preservationists lacked legal standing.
Legal and Security Implications
The administration asserts presidential authority in White House renovations, challenging the court’s position. Sauer suggests any halt threatens security and complicates the White House’s protective measures. The National Trust for Historic Preservation argues the administration is bypassing legal processes.
During a June appeals hearing, a Justice Department lawyer defended broad presidential control over historic sites. The D.C. Circuit panel confirmed a lower court ruling by Judge Richard Leon, noting a pause won’t harm national security. Nevertheless, ongoing construction remains about 65% complete.