Workers set up scaffolding beneath the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts sign on Friday in Washington. The venue faced a pressing situation to retain former President Donald Trump’s name on its facade. A judge refused a request to extend the deadline, set for Friday, to remove references to Trump from the center and its operations. Attempts to appeal the decision were dismissed later that evening.
Scaffolding was placed around the section of the building displaying Trump’s name, yet no removal activity had begun by 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Adverse weather with lightning in Washington complicated the situation.
Trump’s influence on the Kennedy Center grew during his return to office after initially ignoring it in his first term. He replaced the leadership with new trustees and was appointed as chairman. His name was then added to the building.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that only Congress can alter the Kennedy Center’s name. This judgment also prevented the administration from proceeding with major renovations planned for July, intended to span two years. The Kennedy Center’s leadership appealed, emphasizing urgent renovation needs. They claimed the court’s decision hindered necessary repairs to significant structural damage, risking public safety.
While the center resisted efforts to remove Trump’s name, it worked to comply with Cooper’s directive. A June 4 memo instructed staff to use “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or “Kennedy Center” in email signatures and official documents. The center’s website now omits Trump’s name. An email for the upcoming Mark Twain Award for American Humor mentioned the Kennedy Center without Trump’s name.