Trump-Backed Kennedy Center Board Approves Two-Year Renovation Shutdown

Trump-installed Kennedy Center board unanimously approved a two-year closure for renovations, saying the shutdown will speed up critical work on HVAC, electrical, and structural systems, with new seating and marble already purchased. The vote drew opposition from ex-officio lawmakers and Rep. Joyce Beatty, who is pursuing a federal lawsuit over process and voting rights. The plan could affect about 75–175 employees and comes as Trump reshapes the center’s leadership and funding.