Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe Kennedy Center has been at the center of investigations and litigation after Trump named himself chair and dismissed trustees who were appointed by Democratic presidents (AP)Senator Sheldon Whitehouse is expanding an investigation into alleged "waste" and improper conduct at the Kennedy Center, prompted by whistleblower reports. The reports detail no-bid construction contracts and rushed renovations at the performing arts venue, reportedly driven by Donald Trump's "personal tastes" and "aesthetic whims." Whistleblowers allege corner-cutting projects that quickly deteriorated, a bathroom floor replaced due to color preference, and management defying contracting rules. The probe also addresses the controversy over renaming the venue after Trump, a move a federal judge ruled against, ordering the removal of his name by June 12. The Justice Department supports keeping Trump's name, citing his fundraising efforts for renovations, while the Kennedy Center denies Whitehouse's allegations. In fullKennedy Center filled with shoddy work as officials rushed to renovate venue in Trump aesthetic, whistleblowers claimMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in