The Trump administration has formally petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to lift an injunction that currently blocks the construction of a $400 million ballroom at the White House. This legal push follows a 2-1 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, which ruled that the project could not proceed without explicit congressional authorization. Justice Department attorneys are urging the high court to pause the lower court’s order, arguing that the facility is a critical component of national security rather than a mere expansion.

The administration contends that the project, which includes drone and missile shielding, bomb shelters, and medical facilities, is essential for protecting the President and other officials. However, the appeals court panel maintained that the executive branch cannot bypass legislative approval under the guise of security, stating that such major structural undertakings remain a matter for Congress to decide. While the National Trust for Historic Preservation continues to fight the project, arguing that the administration is attempting to evade judicial oversight, the Supreme Court must now determine if the construction can continue while the broader legal battle plays out.