President Donald Trump has unveiled sensitive information regarding the plans for a military facility located beneath the new ballroom at the White House. This revelation comes as he critiques a lawsuit he labeled as “stupid,” which pressured the administration to disclose these details.
During a recent conversation with reporters on Air Force One, Trump responded to a critical New York Times report about the expanding addition near the East Wing. He reiterated the involvement of military personnel in the underground construction.
Trump stated, “The military is constructing a significant complex under the ballroom, which has been exposed due to a ridiculous lawsuit that was filed.” He emphasized that the ballroom’s design aims to enhance protection against potential threats such as drones and other forms of attack.
He added, “The ballroom essentially becomes a shed [shield] for what’s being built under the military, including from drones, and including from any other thing.” Trump mentioned that the windows of the ballroom will be made from high-grade bulletproof glass.
The lawsuit in question was initiated in December 2025 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This group is seeking a federal judge’s intervention to suspend construction while demanding independent reviews and environmental assessments. A judge has indicated plans to make a ruling by the end of March.
According to Trump, the ongoing legal struggle has hindered confidentiality. In a previous Truth Social post, he stated that all plans had been created with military and Secret Service approval. He expressed frustration over the lawsuit revealing what was supposed to be a top-secret project.
Previously, an underground bomb shelter built during World War II under the East Wing was removed to pave the way for the ballroom’s construction.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the ballroom project against the Times’ critique, affirming that it is being funded without taxpayer money. “The President and his architect have created world-class buildings and are ensuring the People’s House receives a ballroom it has needed for decades—without cost to the taxpayer,” she stated.
Supporters of Trump view the ballroom as a much-needed enhancement for the White House event space, while critics scrutinize the timing amid domestic challenges and international issues.
