A group of cultural and historic preservation organizations asked a federal judge Wednesday to prevent President Donald Trump from proceeding with major renovations at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The groups urged U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper to issue a preliminary injunction to halt construction scheduled to begin July 6, citing fears that the president and the center’s board of trustees will ignore preservation laws meant to protect the building. Attorney Greg Werkheiser argued that these laws are fundamental to maintaining the historic integrity of landmarks that define the American experience.
Justice Department attorneys representing Trump and the board contended that the renovation plans are limited in scope and fall within the authority of the board, which they said did not require additional approvals. The Kennedy Center’s board of trustees voted unanimously earlier this year to approve $257 million in renovations and a two-year closure of the facility.
Since returning to office last year, Trump has taken steps that have drawn criticism from preservationists, including replacing the center’s leadership with allies and adding his name to the building’s facade. He also announced plans for the renovations earlier this year.
The hearing followed another session the day before regarding the future of the center. Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, also filed a lawsuit to stop the renovations as an ex officio board member, and that case is being overseen by Judge Cooper.
During the hearing, the center’s executive director, Matt Floca, testified that the renovations are necessary to address decades of wear and tear, including water damage to an area nicknamed “the swamp.” He stated that closing the center is the most efficient way to complete the repairs.
Preservation groups questioned claims that the scope of the project was limited, citing Trump’s remarks about fully exposing the building’s steel skeleton. Justice Department attorney Yaakov Roth dismissed those concerns, saying there is no risk of unilateral changes that would drastically alter or destroy the building.
The legal disputes over the Kennedy Center’s renovations are part of broader battles over Trump’s efforts to alter historic landmarks in Washington, D.C. Since taking office last year, Trump has also faced controversy over projects like the White House’s Rose Garden and a halted $400 million ballroom project. He has also announced plans to build a 250-foot arch to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
