The National Symphony Orchestra continues rehearsing at the Kennedy Center despite public warnings from President Trump and his allies. The group has described the venue as structurally unsafe.
Trump and his supporters claim the building is dangerous and could collapse. No independent engineering report has confirmed those assertions.
The orchestra has not relocated its rehearsals. Its season schedule remains unchanged at the center.
Kennedy Center leadership has defended the facility’s safety. Officials point to regular inspections and ongoing maintenance work.
The dispute highlights a broader political fight over the institution. The center has faced mounting pressure since Trump criticized its programming and leadership.
Musicians have largely avoided public comment on the political clash. They have focused instead on preparing for upcoming performances.
Engineering experts say federal buildings undergo routine structural reviews. No recent findings have been released to support closure or evacuation.
The standoff raises questions about how safety claims are made and tested. It also underscores the intersection of politics and cultural institutions in Washington.
