Judge considers Kennedy Center board's push to put Trump's name back on building

Key Points:

• A federal judge pressed lawyers for Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty and the Justice Department over the Kennedy Center board's plans to re-add President Trump's name to the building, amid ongoing litigation challenging the move as violating federal law.
• The Kennedy Center board, chaired by Trump and composed of his allies, approved resolutions to inscribe Trump's name on the facade and plaza, contingent on fundraising efforts, despite a prior court order to remove his name.
• The Justice Department argued the center is in severe structural and financial distress, requiring fundraising efforts linked to Trump to avoid potential demolition, while Beatty's lawyers accused the board of defying the judge's earlier ruling.
• Judge Christopher Cooper questioned the timing and legal basis of the board’s actions and whether he still has jurisdiction over the case, which the Trump administration has appealed.
• The dispute highlights tensions over the center's identity and future, with no official plans to demolish the nearly 55-year-old institution, but warnings about its deteriorating condition raising stakes in the legal battle.