Judge Orders Kennedy Center to Share Closure Documents with Rep. Beatty

A federal judge in Washington ruled Saturday that Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty of Ohio, an ex officio member of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board, must receive key documents and be allowed to speak at a Monday meeting where the board will consider President Donald Trump's proposal to close the venue for two years of renovations. The decision, however, stops short of granting her voting rights at the session.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper issued the order in response to Beatty's lawsuit, which sought to ensure her inclusion in deliberations on the closure plan. Beatty, who serves on the board by virtue of her congressional position, argued that excluding her would hinder her duties as a trustee. Cooper agreed that withholding information on the renovation plans, including construction details, budgets, and affected artist contracts, would impair her role. He mandated that the center provide these materials to her and other participants by Monday.

The judge emphasized Beatty's right to contribute to discussions, stating in his ruling that board rules could not be used to prevent her from voicing dissent or attempting to influence colleagues. "Inviting...