Federal Judge Blocks Trump from Renaming Kennedy Center and Halts Renovation Plans

A federal judge has denied President Trump’s request to add his name to the Kennedy Center. This landmark in Washington, D.C. was named after President John F. Kennedy and this name cannot be altered without Congress’s approval.

On Friday, U.S. District Court Judge Christopher Cooper issued a ruling that prevents any change to the name or designation of the center. He stated that the naming rights were granted by Congress, and only Congress has the authority to make changes to them.

The Kennedy Center’s administration intended to start a two-year renovation in July. Judge Cooper temporarily halted this plan as well. Roma Daravi, Vice President of Public Relations for the Kennedy Center, expressed disappointment with the decision and indicated plans to appeal. Daravi noted that although the ruling is under appeal, the need for restoration is urgent and widely recognized. She mentioned that $257 million has been allocated for this purpose by President Trump, with Congress’s approval, stressing the importance of continuing with the project.

NPR sought comment from the White House but had not received a response at the time of reporting.

Judge Cooper’s ruling requires that all references to the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts,” or similar names, be removed from signage and online platforms within 14 days. He also temporarily stopped plans for a two-year closure for renovation.

The Kennedy Center’s board, appointed by President Trump, supported the renovation plan. Preparations for this included reducing programming and laying off most programming staff. However, the judge observed that renovations plans lacked clarity. Board members did not have enough information to make an informed decision at their March 16 meeting.

The ruling came from a lawsuit by Rep. Joyce Beatty of Ohio, a former ex-officio board member. Beatty filed this lawsuit after being stripped of her voting rights on the board. While the judge’s decision does not irrevocably prevent closure, the board must first fully inform itself to make a responsible decision. This decision should balance the obligation to maintain an exceptional arts venue with the duty to honor the legacy of President Kennedy.