Kennedy Center strips Donald Trump's name after federal judge order

A federal judge ruled that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington must retain only the name of President John F. Kennedy, ordering the removal of former President Donald Trump's name from the venue’s signage, website and trademarks. The decision, issued by Judge Christopher Cooper on May 29, required the center’s board to delete all references to "Trump" within two weeks. Workers completed the removal of the Trump‑Kennedy signage on June 13, 2026. The name change had been imposed in December 2025 when Trump renamed the institution "Trump‑Kennedy Center," a move that sparked criticism from artists and political opponents. The court rejected a last‑minute appeal by the board, which had been dominated by Trump allies, and also blocked a proposed two‑year closure for renovations. Trump responded by saying he would seek congressional action to regain control of the center. The ruling restores the venue’s original dedication to President Kennedy and ends months of controversy over the politicization of the landmark cultural institution.