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Thousands of protesters formed a human chain around Washington’s Kennedy Center after Donald Trump called the national cultural landmark a “dump” and demanded that his administration receive recognition for saving it. Trump removed the institution’s previous leadership, installed loyalists on its governing board, appointed himself chairman and had his name placed on the facade of the memorial to John F. Kennedy. A federal judge later ordered Trump’s name removed, ruling that only Congress could rename the institution. Hours after the court blocked efforts to restore it, the Trump-aligned board voted to close the Kennedy Center indefinitely for repairs. Trump has not formally ordered its demolition, but his previous suggestion that the building could be “ripped down” prompted judicial intervention requiring 30 days’ notice before major physical action. Critics say the closure and financial arguments are being used as leverage in a personal branding campaign, while performances, educational programmes and partnerships face an uncertain future.