Trump Administration Appeals Kennedy Center Naming Order

The Trump administration plans to appeal a judge’s order that mandates the removal of President Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center. This decision follows a notice of appeal filed on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

Earlier that day, the Kennedy Center board, chosen by Mr. Trump, voted to seek a stay of U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper’s ruling dated May 29. The ruling claimed Mr. Trump’s name was added illegally and ordered its removal by Friday. A person familiar with the board’s actions disclosed these details privately.

Judge Cooper’s ruling also prevented the administration from starting major renovations at the center planned for July. The project was expected to last two years.

This move comes after a memo from the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel, dated June 4, instructed staff to use “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or simply “Kennedy Center” in official documents.

The center’s website has removed Mr. Trump’s name. In an email promoting ticket packages for the June 28 Mark Twain Award for American Humor, the mailing did not mention Mr. Trump. A photograph taken on June 11, 2026, shows the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Rep. Rick Larsen, a Democrat from Washington and ex officio board member, expressed his opposition to the stay. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the arts and the center’s future.

During President Trump’s second term, his influence over the Kennedy Center has grown. Shortly after resuming office, he replaced the center’s leadership and appointed himself chairman. Richard Grenell was initially appointed president; Matt Floca succeeded him in March. Recent programming has favored Trump-aligned events, including Melania Trump’s documentary premiere.

Despite the board’s announcement of renaming the venue “Trump Kennedy Center,” experts contend Congress must approve such changes. The president’s name also appeared on the building’s facade.

The arts community reacted strongly to these developments. Prominent figures such as actor Issa Rae, musician Bela Fleck, and author Louise Penny canceled engagements. Consultants like Ben Folds and Renée Fleming resigned. The National Symphony Orchestra’s executive director, Jean Davidson, left for a position in Los Angeles.

On Thursday, besides voting on the stay, the board passed a resolution acknowledging President Trump’s “commitment to uphold this cherished American institution.”