The judge said Trump can’t build it without authorization from Congress.
ByABC NEWS 
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 7:45PM
A federal judge in Washington on Tuesday issued a preliminary injunction blocking further construction of the White House ballroom.
Judge Richard Leon wrote that President Donald Trump can’t build the ballroom without authorization from Congress, and that “no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have.”
Construction cranes being used for the White House ballroom are seen around the White House, Monday, March 23, 2026, in Washington.
AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Copyright © 2026 ABC News Internet Ventures.