House Republicans approve naming John F. Kennedy Center Opera House after Melania Trump

The Republican-led House Appropriations Committee has approved an amendment that would rename the Opera House at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., the Melania Trump Opera House. The amendment, which is part of the annual appropriations bill for the Department of the Interior and related agencies, passed the committee by a vote of 33-1. However, it must be approved by the House floor and then the Senate to become effective.

The Kennedy Opera House, opened in 1971, is the second largest hall in the cultural complex, with a capacity of 2,347 seats, and has hosted major events such as opera, ballet and classical concerts. It is one of the most recognized performing arts spaces in Washington, along with the Eisenhower Theater. Supporters of the proposal, including Republican Representative Mike Simpson, have called the name change a tribute to Melania Trump's efforts to support the arts and culture.