Trump threatens to demolish Kennedy Center if $250m renovation not done

Key Points:

• The Trump administration warned in a court filing that the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts faces demolition if a $250 million renovation is not completed, describing the building as at risk of becoming unsafe and decrepit.
• This threat coincides with ongoing legal battles over Trump's attempt to put his name on the Kennedy Center, following a federal judge's ruling that only Congress can change the center's name.
• The Kennedy Center board, now dominated by Trump appointees, voted to add the inscription “Restored and Renovated by President Donald J Trump” and rename the grounds “President Donald J Trump Plaza,” actions challenged by Democratic congresswoman Joyce Beatty.
• Critics and legal opponents argue that the administration's demolition threat is an aggressive tactic amid declining ticket sales and public backlash since Trump took control of the center and altered its programming and leadership.
• A federal court hearing is scheduled to consider Beatty's request for an injunction against the name changes, with the administration continuing to defend its position despite widespread criticism and legal setbacks.