The construction of a new ballroom and presidential bunker at the White House continues after the U.S. Court of Appeals granted an administrative stay on an earlier order that had halted most above-ground work. This decision means that the project will likely proceed through at least June 5, when the next hearing is scheduled. Previously, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon had temporarily blocked the ballroom's construction, citing security concerns, but clarified that underground work could proceed while above-ground construction was paused.

The Justice Department has appealed Judge Leon's ruling, arguing that halting the construction poses risks to national security by creating a large vulnerability adjacent to the Executive Residence. President Donald Trump criticized Leon's decision on social media, calling him a 'highly political judge' and emphasizing the importance of the project for national security. Trump announced the plans last summer, including demolishing the East Wing, and has defended the construction as necessary for security and military purposes. Meanwhile, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has challenged the project legally, seeking to block the new East Wing construction.