The National Trust for Historic Preservation has declared it will not drop its lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's proposed $400 million White House ballroom, despite a recent request from the Justice Department. The preservation group maintains that the underlying legal questions in the case remain unresolved, even after a Saturday shooting incident at a media dinner amplified arguments for enhanced presidential security at large events.
The Trust, represented by attorney Gregory Craig, formally communicated its refusal to the Justice Department, stating that the core legal disputes driving the lawsuit have not changed. A federal appeals court has, for now, permitted aspects of the project to proceed, allowing for continued development while a lower court's injunction against above-ground construction remains in place. The appeals court has scheduled a June 5 hearing to further deliberate on the case.
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The push to abandon the lawsuit gained traction following a shooting at a Saturday media dinner, an event attended by high-profile figures including the President and members of Congress. Supporters of the ballroom project, including conservatives, have cited the incident as evidence of the security risks associated with hosting large gatherings outside the immediate White House grounds.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle characterized the proposed ballroom as "long overdue for a safe and secure facility" capable of hosting large events without compromising presidential safety. He described the planned structure as "the safest ballroom anywhere in the world," boasting advanced security features such as bulletproof glass and drone detection technologies.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the ballroom's necessity for "safety" while also acknowledging its potential to be "spectacular" and "beautiful." He indicated a willingness to continue legal proceedings if the preservation group does not alter its stance.
In response to the Justice Department's assertion that the lawsuit poses a threat to the President's life, the National Trust deemed the claim "irresponsible." The organization insists that all individuals, including the President, must adhere to existing laws. Trump himself has frequently attended large public gatherings, including sporting events and political rallies, raising questions about the specific need for the ballroom. The Trust has expressed gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and the Secret Service to the recent shooting, while noting that the ballroom's construction can continue until the June 5 court hearing.
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