Trump admin urges restoring ballroom construction in emergency motion: ‘Time is of the essence’ The Trump administration has filed an emergency motion to reinstate White House ballroom reconstruction, asserting that a judge’s ruling halting the project endangers the security and safety of President Trump and his staff. Lawyers argue that unfinished construction, including ‘Top Secret excavations,’ must be completed quickly to prevent exposure and national security harms. The administration contends that Congress does not need to authorize the privately funded project, citing existing presidential authorities for White House improvements.

• The Trump administration filed an emergency motion to restore halted White House ballroom construction.
• The administration claims unfinished work poses security and safety risks to the President and staff.
• Justice Department lawyers argue that deep excavations and structures must be completed to prevent exposure.
• The motion seeks to overturn a judge’s ruling that required congressional approval for the project.
• The administration asserts that presidential authorities allow for such improvements without explicit congressional authorization.
• The project is privately funded with nearly $400 million committed.
• Preservationists argue the administration bypassed federal review and authorization requirements.
• President Trump stated that congressional approval has never been required for White House construction in these circumstances.