Musician Pulls Out of Show After Trump's Name Hits the Building

A musician made a sudden decision to cancel a Christmas Eve performance at the Kennedy Center after the White House announced that President Donald Trump's name would be added to the venue. The center's president, Richard Grenell, criticized the musician's move, calling it intolerance and a political stunt. Grenell even threatened to seek $1 million in damages.

The Musician's Decision

The musician, Chuck Redd, is renowned for his holiday jazz shows, which he has been hosting since 2006. Redd canceled the performance after noticing Trump's name on the website and later on the building itself. He emphasized that the event is a beloved holiday tradition, often featuring young musicians.

The Kennedy Center's Background

The Kennedy Center was named in honor of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The following year, Congress passed a law to commemorate him with the center. Richard Grenell, a Trump supporter, was appointed by Trump to lead the center after removing the previous leadership.

Legal and Political Implications

Scholars suggest that adding Trump's name might violate the law. Kerry Kennedy, niece of JFK, has expressed her desire to remove Trump's name when he leaves office. Legal experts, including former House historian Ray Smock, argue that any changes require Congressional approval. The law stipulates that the board cannot turn the center into a memorial for anyone else or place another person's name on the building's exterior.