Overview
- Trump announced the Kennedy Center will close after July 4, 2026 for roughly two years of renovations, later saying he will reuse the structure and some marble and estimating a cost near $200 million.
- A letter signed by 70 House Democrats, led by Reps. Jamie Raskin and Suzanne Bonamici, argues the shutdown likely violates the law establishing the Center’s mission and presses for details on funding, scope and relocation plans.
- The proposal remains tied to board action, as Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins said they were blindsided by talk of a full closure despite Congress appropriating about $257 million for upgrades last year.
- Since the December rename and leadership changes, artists and companies including Philip Glass, the Martha Graham Dance Company and the Washington National Opera have withdrawn, with reported drops of 82% in theater subscriptions, 57% in ballet packages and a $1.6 million fall in ticket revenue.
- Arts leaders warn a two-year shutdown would disrupt jobs, community education and local businesses, while critics voice demolition concerns despite Trump’s assurance he is not “ripping it down.”