Trump administration says it might demolish the Kennedy Center if court blocks renovations

Key Points:

• The Trump administration has threatened to demolish the Kennedy Center if its renovation plans, including adding President Trump's name to the building, are not approved, citing the center's structural unsoundness and financial struggles.
• Justice Department attorneys described the Kennedy Center as "fundamentally unsafe" and claimed that only Trump's involvement and fundraising efforts can save the institution from a "financial and structural death spiral."
• The administration's filing contrasts with previous statements from Kennedy Center officials who had assured that renovations would not involve tearing down the building or altering its exterior significantly.
• Congresswoman Joyce Beatty is challenging the Trump-appointed board's push to rename the center to include Trump's name, arguing the decision was rushed and lacked sufficient information; a judge previously ruled the renaming unlawful, stating only Congress can rename the site.
• A hearing on the proposed name change and potential closure of the Kennedy Center is scheduled in D.C., amid ongoing legal battles and criticism from Democrats, musicians, and the Kennedy family.