US President Seeks Emergency Approval for White House Ballroom Project

The US president's request comes as construction on the project is nearing completion.

Background of the Ballroom Project

The $400m ballroom at the White House has been the subject of a legal battle since October, when the administration demolished the East Wing to begin construction without congressional approval.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit arguing that the project was unlawful because it began without a legally required review, which also includes public comment and approval by entities such as the National Capital Planning Commission.

Trump has long argued that the White House lacks a large event space and that building one is vital for national security.

Last week's appeals court decision does not take effect until 21 August, when construction will have to cease unless the Supreme Court grants the emergency application.

The president's lawyers argue that granting the request would be in the best interest of national security, as the ballroom project includes military facilities, such as bomb shelters and centres for medical treatment.

However, opponents of the project argue that it is a luxury that the country cannot afford, especially given the current economic climate.