Kennedy Center board votes to rename performing arts complex the “Trump Kennedy Center”

The board of trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has voted to rename the institution, approving a new title that includes President Donald Trump alongside the late President John F. Kennedy.

According to a statement from the center, the board voted unanimously to rename the facility “The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.” A spokesperson said the name is intended to recognize Trump’s work at the center since taking over leadership earlier in his second term.

The decision quickly raised legal questions and sparked backlash from members of the Kennedy family. Congress designated the arts complex as a memorial to President Kennedy in 1964, and federal law places restrictions on adding new memorial designations within the building. Legal experts told CNN the board’s action is likely unlawful, though it remains unclear who would have legal standing to challenge it in court.

The White House praised the move, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt calling it a moment that would bring “new levels of success and grandeur” to the institution. By Thursday afternoon, the center’s website header had already been updated to read “The Trump Kennedy Center.”

Not all board members agreed with the characterization of a unanimous vote. Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio board member, said she attempted to raise concerns during the meeting but was muted when she tried to speak.

Members of the Kennedy family also condemned the decision. Joe Kennedy III said the center is a living memorial established by federal law and cannot legally be renamed. Maria Shriver called the effort beyond comprehension, pointing to President Kennedy’s long-standing support of the arts and culture.

The vote is the latest step in a broader transformation of the Kennedy Center under Trump’s leadership, which has included leadership changes, revised programming priorities, and major renovation efforts.

This story continues to develop.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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