On May 25, 2026, the DOJ filed a motion in response to a recent shooting that occurred near the White House, seeking to resume progress on a controversial $400 million ballroom project. The DOJ contends that the incident demonstrates the critical need for heightened security measures at presidential events, which the new ballroom aims to provide.

A federal judge had previously mandated a pause in construction following a lawsuit filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, claiming that the project lacked necessary approvals and would damage the historic character of the White House grounds. This organization stated it will continue its legal challenge.

The shooting occurred during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where an attempted act of violence led to a significant evacuation of attendees, including President Trump. In the aftermath, Trump has asserted the necessity of moving forward with the ballroom to ensure safety at such large gatherings.

The DOJ's filing includes language reminiscent of Trump's rhetoric, stating that the lawsuit represents "meritless" opposition to the project. It emphasizes that the new ballroom would provide a "state-of-the-art" secure environment, necessary for protecting not just the president but future administrations as well.

Despite the DOJ's request, legal experts have indicated that obtaining a favorable ruling may be challenging, given the judicial oversight already established over the project. The outcome of this renewed push potentially holds implications for ongoing debates about historic preservation, security, and the expansion of presidential properties in the U.S.