'Fool me once…' Lawyers argue Kennedy Center should not meet same fate as the East Wing

A general view shows the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC on January 10, 2026. Two lawsuits are calling to halt the closure of the Center for renovations. Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio trustee, is also asking for the removal of President Trump

Lawyers made arguments in hearings for two separate lawsuits against President Trump and the Kennedy Center's board this week. Both lawsuits want to halt plans to close the performing arts venue for two years for renovations.

(Image credit: MANDEL NGAN)