- The Trump administration requested Supreme Court approval to build a 90,000-square-foot facility and ballroom replacing the demolished White House East Wing.
- A federal appeals court ruled 2-to-1 that the Constitution gives Congress, not the president, authority to make major alterations to the White House.
- Administration officials contend the project is essential for national security, detailing plans for a military bunker and rooftop drone port to ensure the president's safety.
- Construction continues while the Supreme Court deliberates on the administration's appeal ahead of an August 21 deadline.
- Project costs have escalated from an estimated $200 million to $400 million, supported in part by $300 million transferred from the Secret Service budget.
IN FULL
