President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts could close or even be demolished if his administration does not receive proper acknowledgment, intensifying a dispute over the institution’s naming and renovation plans.
Speaking to reporters on the tarmac in North Carolina, Trump asserted that the “Trump administration should certainly have recognition.” He cautioned that without it, the performing arts center “is going to close. It’ll end up being ripped down,” according to ABC News.
The president characterized the Kennedy Center as a “mess” prior to his intervention, claiming it had lost “tens of millions of dollars, even hundreds of millions of dollars.” He drew comparisons between the struggling institution and New York’s Carnegie Hall.
His comments follow a federal court ruling on Tuesday that blocked the Kennedy Center board from adding a tribute to Trump on the building or its grounds. In response, the president stated he would withhold congressionally approved funding for the center’s renovations unless the structure also bears his name. Last year, Congress appropriated $257 million for the project.
Approximately one hour after the judge’s ruling, the board—which is comprised of appointees selected by Trump—voted to immediately close the main building for renovations. The decision cited safety concerns after a piece of plaster fell from the grand foyer ceiling during a heavy rainstorm earlier in the month. By Wednesday, fencing was being installed around the main entrance.
Critics of the president’s actions were swift. Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, accused Trump of throwing a “tantrum because he lost in court.” Speaking on the House steps Tuesday night, Beatty alleged that Trump is in contempt of court for attempting to close the center.
“He wasn’t pleased with it. He was very explicit with his words, and I responded equally as explicit,” Beatty told reporters, describing a “heated debate” during the board meeting.
Congress already approved the money. Withholding funds because of a court order seems like a direct contempt of court charge.
Carnegie Hall comparison is actually funny because they are two very different institutions with different funding models.
Wait, didn’t he appoint the board members who just voted to close it anyway? Feels like a bizarre power trip.
Ripping down a national treasure over ego? This is exactly why I stopped watching the news altogether.