The Department of Justice has filed arguments linking a recent alleged plot at a White House UFC event to the need for a new ballroom at the executive mansion. The filing comes amid ongoing legal challenges to the project.
The DOJ stated that the arrests of five men on conspiracy charges demonstrate the national security need for the structure. The men allegedly planned to use explosive drones at the UFC Freedom 250 event last weekend before targeting officials with snipers as crowds fled.
According to the two-page filing, the ballroom would include features such as a drone port, sniper nests, missile-resistant columns, and bulletproof glass. Officials described it as essential to protect the president, future presidents, staff, and guests from attacks.
The project has faced court scrutiny since the East Wing demolition began. A federal judge blocked the effort in April over safety concerns, and the administration is now appealing that decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
Trump has said private donors would fund the work. Records reviewed by The Washington Post indicate the total cost would reach $600 million, with more than half covered by taxpayers.
