Thousands of protesters gathered outside the Kennedy Center in Washington as President Trump threatened to demolish the arts venue, sparking widespread concern over potential destruction of the historic site. A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to provide 30 days' notice before any major physical changes, including demolition, to the building.
The protests followed a photo of Trump on Air Force One examining a poster that appeared to depict the demolition of the Kennedy Center, prompting immediate public outcry. Demonstrators carried signs, wore costumes, and chanted slogans like 'Hands off the arts' as they expressed fear Trump might act on his threats without judicial oversight.
The Kennedy Center, a key cultural landmark, faces potential closure and physical changes amid legal battles over Trump's attempts to add his name to the building. Legal experts and officials have emphasized the need for notice before any demolition, highlighting the significance of the venue and the ongoing legal challenges.
A federal judge ruled that Trump's name could not be legally added to the Kennedy Center, and the venue's board, aligned with the president, has faced legal pushback over its plans to close the center for renovations.