Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Name Addition to Kennedy Center

A U.S. federal judge has prevented President Trump from adding his name to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. This arts complex honors the late President John F. Kennedy. Judge Christopher Cooper also temporarily halted plans to close the center for a two-year renovation starting in July.

In his decision, Judge Cooper emphasized that the Kennedy Center’s official name is legally protected. Congress originally named the center for President Kennedy, and only Congress has the authority to change that name.

The Kennedy Center’s organic statute makes crystal clear that the Center is to be named for President Kennedy, and it cannot bear any other formal name or public memorial based on the Board’s unilateral say-so. Congress gave the Kennedy Center its name, and only Congress can change it.

A Kennedy Center spokesperson stated the intention to appeal the ruling. Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations, pointed out the urgent need for renovation. Funding of $257 million, approved by Congress and secured by President Trump, is ready to be used for the restoration. Despite the legal setback, the center remains committed to maintaining its status as a national cultural landmark.

NPR asked for a comment from the White House but received no immediate response. According to the judge’s ruling, any signage or online materials with the names “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts” or “Trump Kennedy Center” must be removed within 14 days. Additionally, renovation plans have been paused.

President Trump and the current board, whose members were chosen by him, intended to begin renovations in early July after the 250th anniversary events. The judge criticized the renovation plans, calling them unclear in his 94-page ruling. He noted that board members lacked adequate information to make informed decisions at a March 16 meeting.

The Kennedy Center has been winding down activities and laid off most of its programming staff. The judge referred to a social media post by President Trump, dismissing claims of a year-long review involving several experts and consultants.

This court ruling follows a lawsuit filed in March by Representative Joyce Beatty of Ohio. She challenged the board after her voting rights were revoked last year. The judge did not permanently block the Kennedy Center’s closure for future renovations but insisted the board make well-informed decisions respecting its duty to honor President Kennedy while maintaining its role as a premier arts venue.