From CNBC · Dan Mangan · · 1m 50s
Judge orders Trump to explain Kennedy Center closure
A federal judge demands answers after Trump shuts down the performing arts venue, defying a prior court order.
In brief
A federal judge demands answers after Trump shuts down the performing arts venue, defying a prior court order. President Trump closed the Kennedy Center immediately despite a federal judge's order blocking such action without court approval, triggering an emergency legal challenge. Originally reported by CNBC.
Trump shuts Kennedy Center immediately
President Trump ordered the Kennedy Center closed on Tuesday, saying renovations would begin right away. The performing arts facility in Washington, DC is now barred to the public.
Judge had blocked closure without approval
In May, Judge Christopher Cooper ordered that the board cannot close the Kennedy Center without his approval. Trump's closure appears to violate that order directly.
“until the Board approves any closure consistent with" Cooper's ruling "and the Court issues a further Order dissolving or modifying this preliminary injunction.”
Rep. Beatty demands emergency hearing
Ohio Democrat Joyce Beatty, an ex officio board member, asked the judge Wednesday for an emergency hearing. She called the closure unlawful and a violation of Cooper's prior order.
“Closing the Kennedy Center without Judge Cooper's approval appears to directly violate his order. This is an assault on the rule of law.”
Building sealed off from public access
A lawyer's staff member was barred from entering Wednesday morning and told the building is closed for safety reasons during construction. The facility is completely inaccessible to the public.
“the staff member was informed that the building is currently closed to the public”
Trump wants his name on the building
Trump said renovations won't begin until courts allow his name to be added to the Kennedy Center's official name. The board previously voted to rename it the Trump Kennedy Center.
Judge already ruled against Trump's name
In May, Judge Cooper ordered Trump's name removed from the Kennedy Center, saying only Congress can change the facility's name. The board's August resolution to add Trump's name back was blocked Tuesday.
“Congress gave the Kennedy Center its name, and only Congress can change it.”
Trump administration must respond by Thursday
Judge Cooper ordered Trump and the board to respond to Beatty's emergency request by Thursday morning. The judge said he will schedule a prompt hearing if necessary after reviewing their response.
“The Court will schedule a prompt hearing if necessary after reviewing the response.”
What matters most
President Trump closed the Kennedy Center immediately despite a federal judge's order blocking such action without court approval, triggering an emergency legal challenge.
