In a recent court filing, Department of Justice (DOJ) lawyers warned that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts could face destruction without extensive renovations proposed by President Donald Trump. The center, which opened in September 1971, might be replaced with another venue if it cannot be updated.
DOJ attorney Brantley T. Mayers described the building as “dangerously dilapidated, outdated, and decrepit” in the filing. Mayers argued the center would further deteriorate without the proposed remodeling. He emphasized the structure’s unsoundness and its embarrassing state for the nation’s capital.
Ohio’s Democratic U.S. Representative Joyce Beatty has led legal challenges against the Trump-appointed board’s efforts to rename and close the center for renovations. Beatty stated that the board cannot rename the performance center to include “Trump” without congressional approval.
Beatty filed an emergency request to block the center from restoring Trump’s name on the facade and naming the grounds “President Donald J. Trump Plaza.” During a congressional oversight hearing, Beatty accused the trustees of unlawfully stripping ex officio members of voting rights and seeking to rename a building honoring President John F. Kennedy, a Democratic icon assassinated in 1963.
“My testimony is about not allowing this unlawful act, protecting the rule of law, and standing up for the only living memorial to John F. Kennedy,” Beatty said.
Mayers argued if Trump is not recognized for the center’s update, it would lead to donors withdrawing, financial contributions drying up, and halting structural rehabilitation. He claimed Trump is “uniquely qualified” due to his real estate expertise.
There is a proposal for a new large amphitheater overlooking the Potomac River, considered more economical but reportedly failing to honor President Kennedy adequately.
The DOJ suggested that renovation plans are crucial for saving the center, calling it a choice between preserving an iconic venue or allowing its irreversible decline.
Timeline of Major Events
- December 18, 2025: The board voted to rename the Kennedy Center, adding Trump’s name, causing backlash.
- December 19, 2025: Trump’s name was added to the center’s exterior.
- February 1: Trump announced a two-year closure starting July 4 for major renovations.
- May 29: A federal judge ruled Trump’s name was unlawfully added and blocked further renovations.
- June 12: The deadline to remove Trump’s name was missed due to storms but completed the following day.
- August 13: The Kennedy Center proposed inscribing “Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump” beneath its main signage, granting a two-year closure for renovations.
- August 19: Plans to return Trump’s name to the facade were postponed.
- August 21: Beatty filed for a court order to block the name change.
- August 27: A hearing is scheduled in Washington, D.C., about the name change and renovation.
Lawyers for Beatty argued that defendants might act on their resolutions after September 8. Representing the center, they indicated the scaffolding remains for vital water testing and structural repairs.