In December 2025, the Trump administration filed a court response asserting that the construction of a ballroom at the White House is necessary for national security. This response was made in light of a lawsuit from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which requested a federal judge to stop the project until it undergoes independent reviews and receives congressional approval.

The administration's filing included a statement from the deputy director of the U.S. Secret Service, indicating that further work is required at the site of the former East Wing to meet safety and security standards. The administration proposed to share classified information with the judge privately, excluding the plaintiffs from this discussion.

Details revealed in the court filings indicate that the ballroom project, which is projected to cost approximately $300 million and cover 90,000 square feet, was approved rapidly by the Trump administration. The filings noted that final plans for the ballroom are still pending, despite ongoing demolition and preparatory work at the site. Below-ground construction is currently in progress, with foundation work expected to commence in January 2026, while above-ground construction is not anticipated to start until at least April 2026.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has not publicly commented on the administration's response. The organization is advocating for a halt to the project until comprehensive design reviews, environmental assessments, and public consultations are conducted, along with congressional debate and ratification.

The Trump administration contends that the claims regarding the East Wing's demolition are moot, as the destruction cannot be reversed, and that concerns about future construction are premature due to the lack of finalized plans. The administration also argues that the National Trust has not demonstrated irreparable harm, as above-ground construction is not expected to begin until later in 2026. Furthermore, it maintains that the necessary reviews will proceed without court intervention.

The ballroom project has faced criticism from various sectors, including historic preservation advocates and political opponents, highlighting concerns over the implications of such large-scale construction in a historically significant area. A federal court hearing regarding the case was scheduled for December 2025.