Story perspectives

Trump Blames Ballroom Project for Hilton Shooting; Judge Blocks Construction

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump linked the Washington Hilton shooting to his $400 million White House ballroom project, saying security would have stopped the attack.
A federal judge halted construction, saying security arguments do not excuse unlawful activity.
Washington Hilton lacked detectors and a perimeter by ballroom, letting the gunman bypass the checkpoint.
Trump said the ballroom will be funded by donors, refused to name donors, and called lawsuit a “ridiculous campaign.”

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump linked the Washington Hilton shooting to his $400 million White House ballroom project, saying security would have stopped the attack.
A federal judge halted construction, saying security arguments do not excuse unlawful activity.
Washington Hilton lacked detectors and a perimeter by ballroom, letting the gunman bypass the checkpoint.
Trump said the ballroom will be funded by donors, refused to name donors, and called lawsuit a “ridiculous campaign.”