The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., must remove President Donald Trump's name after a ruling by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper. The judge determined that the center's governing board, appointed by Trump, lacked the authority to rename the venue.
Court Rules on Authority of Naming
Congress gave the Kennedy Center its name, and only Congress can change it.
Judge Christopher Cooper
The arts center, named after President John F. Kennedy, was rebranded as the "Trump Kennedy Center" in December 2025. The name change was part of Trump's efforts to embed his legacy across various institutions.
Judge Cooper's ruling stated that Congress alone has the power to rename the center. He provided the Trump administration with 14 days to eliminate his name from the building and any related materials.
In response, Trump expressed his frustration, claiming he would relinquish control of the Kennedy Center, which he had taken over at the beginning of his second term. He described the venue as a "dying institution" and stated that he was ready to transfer it back to Congress.
- Trump's name was added in large golden letters above Kennedy's on the facade.
- The center's renaming was voted on by a board filled with Trump's allies.
This incident reflects a growing trend of Trump attempting to imprint his identity on U.S. cultural institutions. His administration has also renamed the U.S. Institute of Peace after him and is pushing to feature his image on a commemorative $250 bill.
Additionally, Trump has initiated plans to demolish the East Wing of the White House for a new ballroom, further showcasing his disregard for traditional political practices.