Congressional backlash grows over possible demolition of Kennedy Center

Lawmakers from both parties are opposing the Trump administration's warning that the Kennedy Center could be demolished if a federal judge does not permit renaming the building and closing it for two years of renovations. The Justice Department filed a legal notice suggesting the 55-year-old structure might be torn down if the administration cannot proceed with its plans. A court hearing is scheduled for Thursday, following an earlier ruling that blocked the addition of President Trump's name to the building.

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Judge Cooper's May ruling blocked the initial naming attempt, citing the organic statute that mandates the center be named for Kennedy. The Trump-dominated board then voted in August for a revised approach: appending "Renovated and Restored by President Donald J. Trump" to the existing inscription and renaming the plaza. The Justice Department's filing warns the structure could become unsafe without renovations, suggesting demolition and a possible outdoor amphitheater as alternatives. Thursday's hearing before Cooper will address Beatty's emergency motion to block this second attempt.

The dispute also involves the center's deteriorating physical condition, which lawmakers acknowledge needs attention. The administration argues its renovation plans are essential and that opposition could drive away donors, while opponents contend the administration is using renovation needs to force the naming issue. The board's composition, now dominated by Trump appointees, adds