Trump Threatens to Demolish Kennedy Center Following Court Block of Naming Rights, Drawing Congressional Demand

The Kennedy Center controversy reached a dangerous new phase after President Trump threatened to 'rip down' the federally protected performing arts center if he cannot put his name on it. The threats came days after a federal judge blocked Trump's latest renaming attempt (Sept 15) and the Trump-controlled board voted to close the venue (Sept 16). On Sept 17, Trump told reporters the center 'will end up being ripped down' unless his administration gets 'recognition,' and an AFP photographer captured him on Air Force One examining a placard labeled 'Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED.' In response, Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, demanded answers from the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees, condemning the threats as a petulant abuse of power and a direct defiance of a federal court order.

“It'll end up being ripped down. It's in very, very bad shape, very dangerous shape.” — Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One while reviewing a placard labeled 'Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED'. Quote verified against source