Story perspectives

Justice Dept. Labels National Trust $400M Ballroom Threat

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Justice Department filed a motion in U.S. President Donald Trump’s social-media style accusing National Trust of endangering the country.
The filing says $400 million ballroom is vital for security after White House Correspondents’ Dinner assassination attempt.
National Trust refused to drop its lawsuit, saying only congressional authorization can halt the project, while Republican lawmakers and Trump allies urged Congress to fund it despite the president’s claim private donations will cover costs.

History

Historical Context

After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Congress passed the USA PATRIOT Act, granting the Department of Justice expansive security authority. In 2002 the DOJ allocated $400 million for upgrades at the Washington Convention Center, citing the new law. Today the DOJ argues the National Trust threatens that same $400 million ballroom used for the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, echoing the Act’s original security precedent.

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Story summary

Justice Department filed a motion in U.S. President Donald Trump’s social-media style accusing National Trust of endangering the country.
The filing says $400 million ballroom is vital for security after White House Correspondents’ Dinner assassination attempt.
National Trust refused to drop its lawsuit, saying only congressional authorization can halt the project, while Republican lawmakers and Trump allies urged Congress to fund it despite the president’s claim private donations will cover costs.

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