House Advances Melania Trump Opera House Renaming

The Republican-led House Appropriations Committee approved an amendment to rename the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C., as the 'First Lady Melania Trump Opera House,' with the measure passing 33-25 as part of a larger annual spending bill. The move, spearheaded by Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID), follows President Trump firing previous board members, installing himself as chairman, and appointing loyalists to key leadership roles at the Kennedy Center. Appropriations for the center have increased to over $250 million in recent legislation. Critics, including Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME), argue the renaming is divisive and part of a broader effort to politicize the historically bipartisan institution. The proposed name change still requires approval from the full House and Senate. Artists and patrons have voiced concern about the center's direction, citing increased political influence and declining attendance.