Trump renews petition for White House ballroom, pointing to nearby shooting

The Trump administration is renewing its effort to lift a court order blocking construction of a new White House ballroom, citing recent security incidents. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche argued in a court filing that the ballroom's completion is urgent, pointing to a shooting near a White House security checkpoint and a previous security breach at the White House Correspondents' Dinner as evidence of the need for enhanced security. President Trump echoed these sentiments on his Truth Social platform, stating the ballroom is essential for future presidents' safety. However, the project faces opposition, including a federal judge's injunction requiring congressional approval and resistance from some senators regarding the nearly $1 billion in taxpayer funds requested for security improvements. The estimated cost of the ballroom has significantly increased from initial private donation pledges.

A gunman, who had previously obstructed a White House entry lane in June 2025 and claimed to be Jesus Christ, was killed by Secret Service agents after firing at a checkpoint near the White House on Saturday. The suspect had been released after the initial incident but failed to appear for a status hearing in August 2025, resulting in a no-bond bench warrant. He was apprehended by law enforcement and subsequently died at a hospital after being shot by Secret Service officers who returned fire. A bystander was wounded in the incident, but no Secret Service officers were injured. President Trump was at the White House at the time, but officials stated no protectees or operations were impacted. This shooting occurred a month after a separate incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

The U.S. Secret Service shot an individual near the White House on Saturday, and a bystander was also struck by gunfire. Both individuals were reported to be in critical condition. Journalists at the White House heard multiple gunshots and were instructed to take shelter. The Secret Service confirmed awareness of reports of shots fired in the vicinity and stated they were working to corroborate the information. The FBI also confirmed officers were responding to the incident. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time. This event follows two recent incidents near the White House involving shootings and law enforcement responses.

US law enforcement agencies responded to reports of over 30 gunshots fired near the White House on Saturday. The Secret Service is investigating the incident, which occurred on the North Lawn. According to an unnamed law enforcement official, a suspect was shot and transported to George Washington Hospital, and a bystander was also shot. Both individuals were reportedly in critical condition. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time. Access to the White House was cordoned off, and National Guard troops blocked reporters from the area.

On Saturday evening, law enforcement and security forces responded to gunshots near the White House. A suspect approached a checkpoint at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue and began shooting at officers. The suspect was subsequently "down" and transported to George Washington Hospital. A law enforcement official identified the individual as an emotionally disturbed person who had a previous "stay-away order." President Donald Trump was at the White House at the time, engaged in negotiations with Iran. Journalists at the White House reported hearing the shots and were instructed to shelter in the press briefing room by US Secret Service officers.