Trump's Plan for a Lavish White House Ballroom Moves Forward

A federal judge allowed President Donald Trump to continue planning a $400 million White House ballroom, dismissing preservationists' emergency request to halt construction. The ballroom, funded by private donations, will exceed 90,000 square feet, with ground work to begin next year, pending further legal review.

A federal judge has permitted President Donald Trump to proceed with plans for a lavish White House ballroom, resisting an emergency plea by preservationists to halt development. The decision, announced on Wednesday, does not substantiate claims of "irreparable harm" made by the plaintiffs.

Trump's vision involves a grand structure, estimated at $400 million, surpassing earlier predictions. The project has sparked controversy, with critics alleging the president bypassed necessary consultations before dismantling the East Wing for this initiative.

The White House affirms Trump's legal prerogative to enhance the presidential residence, aligning with past precedents. The judge scheduled a January hearing, further evaluating the project's impact as planning evolves and designs unfold.

(With inputs from agencies.)