Judge Denies Request to Halt White House Ballroom Construction Funded Privately

A federal judge rejected a preservation group's request to halt construction of a $400 million ballroom at the White House, a project initiated by former President Trump. The group sought to pause the work pending congressional approval and independent reviews, citing concerns over demolition of the East Wing. The judge noted the group could amend its lawsuit to address statutory authority issues. The White House stated the ballroom is privately funded, including by Trump, and aims to accommodate 999 people.