Judge Says Only Congress Can Change the Landmark’s Name
A federal judge has ordered the removal of President Donald Trump’s name from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, ruling that the venue cannot be renamed without congressional approval.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper said the Kennedy Center’s governing law makes it clear that the institution is dedicated to President John F. Kennedy and cannot officially bear another name through a board vote alone. The ruling requires all signage featuring Trump’s name to be removed within 14 days.
Renovation Closure Also Blocked
The court also halted plans to close the Kennedy Center for two years while extensive renovations were carried out. Cooper found that the board’s decision to shut down the facility lacked sufficient legal and procedural justification.
The decision stems from a lawsuit filed by Ohio Representative Joyce Beatty, who argued that trustees exceeded their authority when they approved the name change and broader restructuring plans.
Dispute Over Authority
According to the ruling, Congress formally named the cultural institution after Kennedy in 1964 following the former president’s assassination. Cooper concluded that only Congress has the power to alter that designation.
The judge ordered officials to remove physical signs, website references, and promotional materials referring to the venue as the “Trump Kennedy Center.” Center officials must also provide proof that they have complied with the order.
Appeal Expected
Kennedy Center representatives indicated they plan to appeal, arguing that the board acted within its authority when recognizing Trump’s contributions to the institution. The administration has challenged similar court rulings involving other Washington projects in recent months.
The legal battle highlights ongoing tensions over presidential influence on national landmarks and cultural institutions. For now, however, the court’s ruling restores the Kennedy Center’s official identity as a memorial dedicated solely to President Kennedy.
