WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kennedy Center is initiating the removal of President Donald Trump’s name from its references. This follows a federal judge’s ruling that the addition of his name was illegal.
Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations at the Kennedy Center, stated that the institution is adhering to the court’s order. The center is also exploring legal avenues to sustain this change while acknowledging President Trump’s role in the project’s revitalization.
A memo from the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel directed staff that email signatures, letterhead, and other documents must use the name “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or simply “Kennedy Center.” These revisions are to be finalized by June 12.
On May 29, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper prohibited the Trump administration from closing the venue for extensive renovations previously scheduled to begin in July. After the decision, Trump indicated he would withdraw from the renovation efforts and restore Congressional control over the performing arts center.
Following the ruling, Trump criticized Judge Cooper on social media, labeling him as biased. Trump also speculated that the center, slated for a two-year overhaul, might close indefinitely due to these legal challenges. He expressed frustration with Cooper’s decision and connected it to previous judicial defeats, including the Supreme Court’s disapproval of his tariffs in February.
The ruling disrupted Trump’s plans to transform several landmarks in Washington. Recent initiatives included the painting of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool’s bottom, changes to the White House East Wing, and proposals for new structures.
Reporter Hillel Italie in New York and Kinnard in Columbia, S.C. contributed to this report.