Supreme Court allows Trump's ballroom construction to proceed
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Add Axios on Google Construction continues on a new helipad on the South Lawn of the White House and the East Wing ballroom on August 24, 2026, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
The Supreme Court on Monday permitted President Trump to proceed with plans to build the White House ballroom .
Why it matters: The 5-4 ruling is likely the final word on the project , which can now proceed with above-ground work after it was halted while the case played out in court.
Driving the news: The majority decision noted that the justices did "not pass upon the legality of the government's East Wing project."
Zoom in: In his dissenting opinion, Roberts wrote that construction was "likely unlawful."
Catch up quick: The decision follows an interim Supreme Court order earlier this month pausing a D.C. federal court's halt on all construction while the justices considered Trump's request to keep the project moving.
What they're saying: Trump said in a Truth Social post that he was pleased the Supreme Court had ruled in favor of the complex being built "without any further contingency, doubt, or threat," adding: "We are living in the Golden Age of America, and this Building will be one of the Greatest ever constructed in Washington, D.C."
The other side: National Trust for Historic Preservation CEO Brent Leggs said the group was "deeply disappointed" with the ruling and "respectfully disagree[s]" with the majority's opinion on standing.
Follow the money: The ballroom and its underground bunker are estimated to cost at least $600 million , up from the initial $400 million price tag when the administration announced its plans.
Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional details throughout.
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