Judge Orders Removal of Trump’s Name from Kennedy Center

A U.S. judge has denied the Kennedy Center’s request to pause a ruling that mandates the removal of President Donald Trump’s name from its building. This decision was made on Friday by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper, who previously ruled that Trump’s name was unlawfully added to the renowned Washington performing arts venue. Judge Cooper determined that only Congress holds the authority to alter the Kennedy Center’s name and ordered the removal of any references to Trump by Friday.

A memo from June 4, issued by the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel, instructed staff to ensure all email signatures, letterhead, and related documentation bear the names “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or simply “Kennedy Center.” Following this direction, the Kennedy Center’s website has already removed Trump’s name. Additionally, recent communication to members regarding ticket packages for the June 28 Mark Twain Award for American Humor ceremony omitted any mention of Trump.

During his return to office, President Trump has exerted significant influence over the Kennedy Center, which was not the case during much of his first term. Early into his second stint, he restructured the venue’s leadership by replacing it with a new board of trustees of his choice, appointing himself as chairman.