US judge orders 30-day notice prior to any Kennedy Center physical changes

A U.S. federal judge has ordered the Kennedy Center to provide 30 days' notice before undertaking any major physical changes to the building, including demolition. This ruling comes amid a legal dispute over President Donald Trump's efforts to overhaul the performing arts venue. The order was issued by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper following a request from Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty. The Kennedy Center recently closed temporarily due to structural deterioration, including a partial ceiling collapse and roof terrace canopy issues. Trump's administration has stated its efforts are crucial for the center's restoration, warning of its potential demolition if not addressed. The judge rejected an emergency hearing request but mandated the 30-day notice period for significant alterations.

A photograph taken on Wednesday at Joint Base Andrews shows Donald Trump holding a placard depicting the Kennedy Center apparently being demolished. This image gained widespread attention on Thursday. The article states that Trump had previously threatened to tear down the arts venue after being blocked from renaming it after himself. The placard Trump was seen holding contained visible red text that read "Kennedy Center DEMOLIS…". The photograph was captured by Agence France-Presse photographer Brendan Smialowski.