Construction of a new ballroom and presidential bunker at the White House will proceed after the U.S. Court of Appeals granted a stay on previous halts, allowing most above-ground work to continue. The legal dispute arose from a temporary block imposed by Judge Richard Leon in March, citing national security risks, which was later reconsidered by the appeals court. The next hearing is scheduled for June 5, providing a window for ongoing construction.

President Trump publicly defended the project, emphasizing its importance for national security and criticizing the judge's ruling as politically motivated. The efforts include a privately funded ballroom announced last summer and demolition of the East Wing, which faced opposition from the National Trust for Historical Preservation. The legal and political battles highlight tensions over transparency, security, and preservation at the White House.