Trump Name Installed at Kennedy Center as Members Say Vote Was Not Legitimate
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dec. 19, 2025 — The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts became the focus of mounting controversy Friday after workers were seen installing new exterior signage following a board vote to add President Donald Trump’s name to the landmark.
The Kennedy Center’s board of trustees voted Thursday to rename the venue the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts,” a move the White House described as recognition of Trump’s role in securing funding and overseeing renovations. By Friday morning, large letters spelling “The Donald” were partially installed on the building’s facade, with sections of the original name covered by blue tarps.
The rapid signage change sparked backlash from Democratic lawmakers, legal experts, and members of the Kennedy family, who argue the renaming may violate federal law. The Kennedy Center was established by Congress in 1958 and formally designated in 1964 as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Critics say any change to the memorial’s name requires explicit congressional approval.
Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), an ex officio board member, disputed White House claims that the vote was unanimous. Beatty said she was muted during the meeting and not allowed to object, calling the process a violation of both procedure and the law governing the center.
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Members of the Kennedy family also criticized the move. Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s grandson, said the designation as a congressional memorial was never intended to be altered by a board vote alone.
Supporters of the decision, including White House officials, argue the dual name preserves Kennedy’s legacy while acknowledging Trump’s role in securing hundreds of millions of dollars for long-delayed renovations and revitalization efforts at the center.
Legal experts say the dispute is likely to end up in Congress or the courts, noting that signage changes alone do not override federal statute. Several lawmakers have already signaled interest in legislation to block or reverse the renaming.
As of Friday afternoon, work on the new signage appeared to be ongoing, even as questions over the legality of the change remain unresolved.
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