Senators propose bill to require congressional approval for Kennedy Center demolition
Senators Lisa Murkowski and Jeff Merkley are backing legislation to block the demolition of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts without congressional consent. The bill comes after President Donald Trump threatened to tear down the building unless his name is added to it. Merkley plans to seek unanimous consent for the measure on Monday.
The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Sen. Jeff Merkley and co-sponsored by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, would require explicit congressional authorization before any demolition of the Kennedy Center or other presidential memorials. Merkley intends to use a unanimous consent motion on Monday, a fast-track procedure vulnerable to a single objection, though bipartisan support from the appropriations subcommittee that funds the center strengthens its prospects.
The backdrop includes President Trump's threat to raze the 55-year-old structure unless his name is added to its facade. The center remains closed after a ceiling collapse, with the Trump-appointed board citing safety. Lawmakers have approved roughly $257 million for renovations, but appropriators like Murkowski and Rep. Chellie Pingree are demanding clearer plans, noting years of deferred maintenance and structural issues that need addressing.
This legislative move could set a precedent for congressional oversight over presidential actions on federal memorials, potentially curbing executive overreach. It may affect the arts community, patrons, and employees who rely on the center's operations, as well as taxpayers funding renovations. If the bill passes, it could force a more transparent planning process, but a single objection could stall it, leaving the center's fate uncertain and heightening political tensions.