The fight over Donald J. Trump’s plans for the Kennedy Center has moved into court, with a federal judge ordering the administration to provide advance notice before making any major physical changes to the building, The Hill reports.
The judge’s order follows concerns that were raised about Trump’s threats to demolish parts of the Kennedy Center. The dispute intensified when an image appeared showing the words “KENNEDY CENTER DEMOLISHED,” adding even more fuel to questions about exactly how far the administration intends to go with its plans for the cultural institution.
The judge did not grant the emergency hearing Rep. Joyce Beatty sought, who represents the district that includes the Kennedy Center. Instead, the court required the administration to give 30 days’ notice before undertaking demolition or other major physical alterations.
Beatty has challenged the administration’s handling of the Kennedy Center, arguing that the contemplated changes could go far beyond ordinary renovations. Her concerns come as Trump has asserted greater control over the institution and pursued extensive changes to its leadership and facilities.
For now, the court’s order puts at least one procedural roadblock in the way of any sudden demolition plans. If the administration wants to make major physical changes, it will have to provide advance notice—allowing opponents to take the matter back to court before the wrecking equipment rolls in.
As Newshound Ellen noted this week, the same judge ruled that Trump's loyalists on the Kennedy Center board can’t break or skirt the law by putting his name on it without Congress’ approval.
In short, Trump can't do whatever the fuck he wants to a national cultural center that serves as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. And Trump wanted to slap his name next to JFK's simply because his narcissism knows no bounds, and he's certainly devoid of any semblance of decency.
