Trump administration seizes on shooting to make case again for White House ballroom

The Trump administration used a recent shooting near the White House to justify constructing a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom in the East Wing, citing enhanced security features like drone-proof and bulletproof materials. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche argued the project is critical for national security, opposing a court order halting construction. The National Trust for Historic Preservation sued to block the demolition of the East Wing, while Senate Republicans oppose using taxpayer funds for the $1 billion project, which the administration claims will be privately funded.