A federal appeals court has ordered the halt of the $400 million construction project for a new ballroom at the White House, citing that the project has not been approved by Congress. This ruling comes after the National Trust for Historic Preservation challenged the project and sought an injunction last year. A three-judge panel upheld the injunction in a 2-to-1 decision on Saturday, August 8th, 2026.

US President Donald Trump has responded by vowing to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. The case highlights ongoing legal and political challenges surrounding the administration's plans for the White House expansion.

Sources