The Trump administration has filed an emergency motion in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to overturn a judge’s order halting construction on a White House ballroom, citing serious security concerns. The motion contends that the suspension leaves the executive residence vulnerable, posing significant national security threats to the White House, the President, his family, and staff.
U.S. District Judge Richard Leon issued the ruling on Tuesday, ordering a pause on the $400 million project located on the site of the recently demolished East Wing. The halt remains in effect while a lawsuit challenging the construction proceeds through the courts. The plaintiffs argue that the project requires congressional approval before moving forward.
Judge Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, allowed a 14-day window for the Trump administration to appeal his decision. In response, the National Park Service submitted the emergency motion, asserting that the federal district court lacks constitutional jurisdiction over the case, which it describes as based on a single individual’s subjective architectural objections.
The lawsuit was initiated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a nonprofit organization, which claims that President Trump exceeded his authority by demolishing the historic East Wing and commencing construction on the new ballroom. However, the administration’s motion argues that the Trust’s claims are legally unfounded and that none of its members have the legal standing to sue. It further asserts that the President holds full authority to renovate the White House.
Originally constructed in 1902 and expanded during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration about 40 years later, the East Wing’s demolition is part of President Trump’s broader effort to reshape Washington’s monumental core. This initiative also includes plans for a 250-foot (76-meter) arch and modifications at the Kennedy Center.
