The Trump administration defends continuing White House ballroom construction for security reasons, rejecting a lawsuit challenging its legality.

The Trump administration argues in a federal court that construction of a new White House ballroom must continue for unspecified national security reasons, asserting the National Trust for Historic Preservation lacks legal standing to challenge the project. The government claims ongoing work on the former East Wing site is essential for Secret Service safety and security operations, though it has not disclosed specific threats. Below-ground construction continues, with above-ground work expected to begin in April 2026. The lawsuit, seeking to halt the project until independent reviews, public comment, and congressional approval are completed, remains pending, with a hearing scheduled in Washington, D.C.