Kennedy Center board votes to put Trump’s name back on building
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Kennedy Center Board Votes to Put Trump’s Name Back on Historic Venue
Ninoda.com – The Kennedy Center board votes to put Donald Trump’s name back on the iconic Washington DC performing arts center, reversing a recent court-ordered removal. This significant decision by the cultural institution’s governing body comes approximately eight weeks after a federal judge mandated that the presidential inscription be taken down. According to Democratic Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, who serves as a board member, the vote took place on Thursday with many members being known supporters of the former president. The board agreed to restore the phrase “Restored and Renovated By President Donald J. Trump” to the official name of the prestigious venue.
Reactions to the Board’s Decision
Congresswoman Beatty was quick to voice her opposition to the board’s choice. She stated,
“This latest development is a transparent effort to circumvent the court’s ruling, and flies in the face of the statutes that Congress passed.”
The Democratic representative emphasized her commitment to protecting the landmark, adding,
“I will continue to fight for this treasured national monument.”
Meanwhile, White House spokesperson Liz Huston issued a statement praising the board’s decision. Huston noted,
“Under President Trump’s bold leadership, the Kennedy Center is on its way to becoming the finest cultural institution anywhere in the world.”
The administration’s response highlights the political significance of this decision for the Trump presidency.
Alongside the naming controversy, the board approved comprehensive plans for a two-year shutdown to facilitate major renovation work. Previously, a federal judge had halted these construction efforts pending resolution of the naming dispute. US District Court Judge Christopher Cooper issued his ruling in late May, determining that the initial addition of Trump’s name violated existing regulations because renaming requires congressional consent. Consequently, the inscription was taken down last month despite efforts by the Trump administration to prevent its removal.
Officials from the Trump administration contended that altering the name might cause public misunderstanding should the ruling eventually be reversed. The legal battle originates from a larger conflict regarding the status of the cultural landmark, which federal law identifies as a tribute to John F. Kennedy. Trump revealed his intention to add his name to the facility during the previous year, setting off a chain of events that has now culminated in this board decision.
Earlier in February 2025, President Trump swapped out multiple board members and then named himself as a trustee. He also secured a vote to become the chairman of the arts center, consolidating his influence over the institution. This restructuring of leadership helped pave the way for the board’s recent decision to restore his name to the venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Trump’s name originally removed from the Kennedy Center? US District Court Judge Christopher Cooper ruled in late May that the initial addition of Trump’s name violated regulations because renaming the center requires congressional consent, not just board approval.
When did the Kennedy Center board vote to restore Trump’s name? The board cast their ballots on Thursday, approximately eight weeks after the court-ordered removal of the presidential inscription.
What is the full name that will appear on the Kennedy Center? The board agreed to restore the phrase “Restored and Renovated By President Donald J. Trump” to the official designation of the center.
How long will the Kennedy Center be closed for renovations? The board approved plans for a two-year shutdown to facilitate major upgrades to the historic venue.
What role did President Trump play in the board’s decision? In February 2025, Trump swapped out multiple board members, named himself as a trustee, and secured a vote to become chairman of the arts center, helping to create conditions favorable to restoring his name.
