A federal appeals panel has temporarily cleared the way for construction of a proposed ballroom at the White House to continue while legal challenges move forward.
Temporary Stay Issued
The three-judge panel granted an administrative stay, pausing a lower court order that had blocked above-ground construction. The decision allows work to proceed for now as judges review an emergency appeal from the administration of Donald Trump.
The court emphasized the stay is procedural and not a final ruling on the legality of the project.
Legal Dispute Ongoing
Last month, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that the ballroom could not be built without approval from Congress. He later clarified that certain security-related and below-ground work could continue.
The lawsuit was filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which argues the project requires federal review and public input before construction can proceed.
What Happens Next
The appeals court is expected to hear arguments on June 5, which could determine whether construction continues or is halted again.
Project Background
Plans for the roughly 90,000-square-foot ballroom were announced in 2025, with demolition of part of the East Wing beginning soon after.
Construction can move forward for now, but the future of the White House ballroom project remains uncertain as courts weigh its legality.
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