A judge has turned down the Kennedy Center’s request to delay a ruling that demands the removal of President Donald Trump’s name from the building. This decision was made on Friday by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper.
Last month, Judge Cooper ruled that adding Trump’s name to the renowned Washington performing arts venue was illegal. Cooper stated that only Congress has the authority to change the name of the Kennedy Center. He ordered all references to Trump to be removed by Friday.
A memo dated June 4 from the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel instructed staff to ensure email signatures, letterhead, and other documents reflect the names “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or “Kennedy Center.” The Kennedy Center’s website has since removed Trump’s name. An email distributed earlier this week, promoting ticket packages for the June 28 Mark Twain Award for American Humor, omitted any mention of Trump’s name.
Though Trump largely ignored the Kennedy Center throughout his first term, he exerted significant influence over the venue during his comeback to office. Shortly after beginning his second term, he dismissed the previous leadership and established a new board of trustees, which appointed him as chairman.