White House UFC Event Threat Thwarted, Trump Uses Plot to Push Ballroom Project

FBI Director Kash Patel announced that a multi‑state operation stopped a planned multi‑phase terrorist attack on a UFC event held at the White House, which was attended by President Donald Trump and senior officials. At least 23 suspects were arrested after the plot, uncovered on June 10, was found to involve drone strikes, a sniper team, and a second‑wave assault on the White House doors. Patel said, "the quick reflexes of our partners and the Department of Justice in a multi‑state operation resulted in the arrest of many individuals and the complete thwarting of the planned attacks."

Following the incident, President Trump argued that a massive ballroom—about 90,000 sq m—on White House grounds is needed for security, citing the thwarted attack as justification. Justice Department official Brett Shumate wrote to an appeals court that the ballroom would protect the President and guests and aid Secret Service detection. Legal challenges continue, with courts previously ordering a halt to construction; an appeals panel has temporarily allowed work to proceed while the constitutional question of congressional approval is debated.