Kathmandu— A United States judge questioned why the Kennedy Center is moving forward with plans to restore President Donald Trump’s name to the performing arts venue after it was previously ordered removed by a court ruling. During a hearing on Thursday, Judge Christopher Cooper pressed a Trump administration lawyer on the September 8 deadline for beginning the renaming process, questioning its connection to congressional intent and legal statutes.

Board's Actions Under Scrutiny

Judge Cooper specifically asked why the Kennedy Center felt compelled to begin adding Trump’s name by September 8. The date, according to lawyer Bradley Mayers, aligns with a vote by the center’s board of directors – a board composed of members selected by President Trump and who subsequently appointed him as its head. Cooper responded that while the board's vote was relevant, it did not address whether the actions aligned with congressional intent.

Legal Challenges and Congressional Authority

The legal dispute stems from Trump’s desire to reshape Washington D.C.’s landscape through projects like renaming the Kennedy Center, demolishing parts of the White House, and erecting a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. In May, Judge Cooper ruled that adding Trump’s name to the building was illegal, asserting that Congress alone has the authority to rebrand it. He also blocked an attempt to close the center for two years, dismissing claims of necessary maintenance as potential retaliation against opposition to the renaming.

Escalating Tensions and Threats

Despite the previous ruling, the Trump-aligned board recently renewed its efforts to add his name to the facade with the inscription “Restored and Renovated By President Donald J Trump,” and also voted to rename the plaza in front of the venue after him. Administration officials have since threatened to demolish the Kennedy Center if renovations—including the renaming—do not proceed, warning it would fall into disrepair without intervention. Lawyers for Representative Joyce Beatty, a Kennedy Center trustee who filed the lawsuit, characterized the board’s actions as “outright defiance” of the court.

Historical Context and Memorial Designation

The Kennedy Center was established by Congress as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, who played a key role in fundraising for its creation before his assassination in 1963. Federal law stipulates that no other national memorial to Kennedy can be erected in Washington, D.C.

As of Thursday’s hearing, Judge Cooper rejected the claim that court orders were impeding necessary repairs to the center, and the legal battle over its renaming continues.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.