Kennedy Center Removes Trump References Following Court Ruling

The Kennedy Center is set to remove references to President Donald Trump, following a recent federal court ruling. A week ago, a judge concluded that Trump’s name had been illegally added to the renowned performing arts venue.

Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations for the Kennedy Center, stated that the organization is adhering to the court’s decision while exploring legal options. The aim is to preserve the center’s revitalization efforts and acknowledge Trump’s previous leadership role. A memo from the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel emphasized that all official documents, including email signatures and letterheads, should use “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or simply “Kennedy Center.” This change is to be implemented by June 12.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper’s ruling on May 29 included a block on plans to close the center for major renovations, initially scheduled for July. Soon after, Trump announced his withdrawal from the renovation project and his intention to hand control back to Congress. Historically, the center had been known as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts until Trump’s second term as president.

Following the ruling, Trump criticized Judge Cooper on social media, labeling him an “anti-Trump Hater.” He expressed doubt about the center’s future, suggesting it might close permanently. Trump linked this decision to previous legal defeats, such as the Supreme Court’s rejection of his tariff proposals earlier this year.

The court’s decision is a setback for Trump’s broader plans to redesign significant landmarks in Washington. This week, his administration completed renovations on the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, including painting its bottom “American flag blue.” Additionally, the White House East Wing has been demolished for a new ballroom, and plans are in place to construct an arch connecting the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.

Associated Press writer Hillel Italie contributed to this report from New York. Reporting by Kinnard in Columbia, S.C.