Kennedy Center votes to shut down operations for 2 years ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
CBSN
The Kennedy Center's board of directors voted on Monday to shut down operations for two years as President Trump calls for a major overhaul of the D.C.-based performing arts institution. In:
The Kennedy Center's board of directors voted on Monday to shut down operations for two years as President Trump calls for a major overhaul of the D.C.-based performing arts institution.
It's the latest move by Mr. Trump to put his stamp on the Kennedy Center, drawing stiff criticism from congressional Democrats and performing artists. The center's board — which includes many members handpicked by Mr. Trump — voted last year to rename it the Trump-Kennedy Center, leading to a wave of performance cancellations.
Mr. Trump has cited the need for repairs as a reason for the closure, which will take effect after this summer's July 4 celebrations.
"We're going to ensure it remains the finest performing arts facility of its kind anywhere in the world," the president told reporters at the White House before the board met Monday.
The board also voted to install Matt Floca as CEO and executive director, replacing Trump ally Richard Grenell, who oversaw far-reaching changes at the venue. Mr. Trump praised Grenell on Monday, saying he had been a longtime friend, and wished Floca "good luck with everything."













