Chief Justice John Roberts issued a temporary administrative stay on Friday allowing construction of President Donald Trump’s expansive White House ballroom project to continue while the Supreme Court considers a full request to pause lower-court orders blocking most above-ground work.
The 90,000-square-foot ballroom, estimated at $400 million or more when combined with related underground security features, replaces the demolished East Wing.
Lower courts, including a D.C. district judge and the D.C. Circuit, had ruled that the project required congressional approval and that Trump, as a “temporary tenant,” lacked unilateral authority. A stay was set to take effect Friday evening, but Roberts’ one-sentence order keeps construction moving pending further court action.
The administration has argued the complex is a vital national-security and military facility, with crews working around the clock; filings claim it is about 65% complete.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which sued, contends the work causes irreversible damage to a historic landmark and violates environmental and administrative laws. Trump thanked the Court on social media, calling the project “vital for National Security” and “THE GREATEST OF ITS KIND.”
Critics, including preservationists and some lawmakers, view the ballroom as an extravagant personal legacy project that bypasses oversight and alters a national symbol. Supporters emphasize security needs and the president’s authority over the executive residence.
The case underscores broader debates about executive power, historic preservation and the use of public or donor funds for White House modifications.
With construction crews remaining active, the temporary green light keeps the project on its accelerated timeline as the justices deliberate. A more definitive ruling is expected in the coming period, potentially shaping the final scope of the controversial addition.
