National Trust President and CEO Brent Leggs has released the following statement in response to today's ruling to uphold the lower court’s decision to block the above-ground construction of the White House ballroom:

“This is a great day for our country and for the American people's right to voice their opinions about the historic places they cherish, including the White House. From the beginning, our position has been clear and consistent: the law states that only Congress can authorize the construction of a ballroom at the White House.

We are pleased with the DC Circuit Court’s decision to uphold the District Court’s preliminary injunction, which although stayed for 14 days will block any above-ground ballroom construction unless and until Congress takes action.

Our nation was founded on the values of liberty, justice, and the right of the people to be heard. This decision is particularly meaningful as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and advocate for renewed protections for historic preservation.

The White House, a global landmark that symbolizes American identity and the ideals of democracy, belongs to the American people. The National Trust for Historic Preservation and its partners are proud to defend this irreplaceable monument on behalf of all Americans."

- Brent Leggs, President and CEO, National Trust for Historic Preservation

Resources

• Opinion: U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, August 7, 2026 (PDF)
• See more resources related to the White House Construction Project