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Trump rushed Kennedy Center renovations for Fifa peace prize ceremony, whistleblowers say
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- US Senator Sheldon Whitehouse has accused the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts of rushing renovations and ignoring federal contracting laws to prepare for events, including one hosted by Donald Trump during the World Cup draw in December.
- Whistleblowers allege that rushed cosmetic work, such as a revamp of the Reflecting Pool and repainting columns, has led to poor-quality results requiring costly repairs, and that no-bid contracts were awarded to inexperienced firms, possibly rewriting contracting rules post hoc to justify these decisions.
- Whitehouse criticized the Kennedy Center’s leadership and Board for prioritizing Trump's aesthetic preferences over the building’s actual needs, resulting in wasteful spending and damage to a national memorial.
- The Kennedy Center denied the allegations, asserting rigorous financial oversight and a commitment to transparency, while a White House spokesperson defended Trump’s role in securing $257 million for the center’s renovations after years of neglect.
- The letter from Whitehouse requests documents and answers by 23 July, and Democratic Representative Rick Larsen called the whistleblower claims serious, urging the Board of Trustees to ensure renovation funds are used appropriately for necessary repairs.
