The construction of a new ballroom and presidential bunker at the White House is temporarily ongoing after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued an administrative stay, halting most above-ground work. The case follows a prior order by U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, who had temporarily blocked the ballroom's construction in March, citing concerns over national security. The appellate court's decision means work can proceed through at least June 5, pending the next hearing.

President Trump has been vocal in support of the project, emphasizing its importance to national security and criticizing the judge's ruling. He described the construction as a vital and militarily necessary development, dismissing claims that underground facilities alone are sufficient. The project, announced last year, includes demolishing the East Wing, with the Justice Department arguing that halting work could jeopardize presidential safety. The legal dispute highlights ongoing tensions over security upgrades at the White House and Trump's recent initiatives, including the lawsuit from the National Trust for Historical Preservation against the East Wing demolition.