Sen. Jeff Merkley plans to introduce a bill as early as next week requiring congressional approval to demolish presidential memorials designated by Congress, including the Kennedy Center. Trump has threatened to demolish the center if a court blocks adding his name.
The bill defines demolition as intentionally razing, destroying or wrecking an entire structure or a substantial portion. Merkley’s deputy communications director told Forbes he may introduce it and seek unanimous consent as early as Monday. Axios reported Sen. Lisa Murkowski will cosponsor.
The court dispute includes Trump’s effort to add his name to the center; a judge ruled last week that it could not be inscribed on the marble facade and ordered at least 30 days’ notice before major repair-plan changes, including demolition. Executive director Matt Floca extended the closure for emergency repairs through Sept. 30, subject to weekly review. Rep. Joyce Beatty, the plaintiff, has called the closure a pretext for permanently shutting the center; the venue cites safety concerns.
