Renaming of the Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will now possess a new dual name: the Trump-Kennedy Center. This change comes after a decision by the center’s board. On Friday, December 19, 2025, new signage was revealed in Washington.
Announcement and Reactions
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, announced on social media that the board voted unanimously for the name change. She cited President Trump’s significant contributions in preserving the building as a reason for this decision. The center’s website has also been updated to reflect this change.
However, dissent exists. Ohio Democrat Representative Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio member of the board, disputed the claim of unanimous voting. In a video shared on social media, she expressed concerns about the voting process, stating, “Each time I tried to speak, I was muted.”
Official Statements and Legal Concerns
Roma Daravi, the Kennedy Center’s vice president of public relations, affirmed the vote’s unanimous nature. She characterized the renaming as a move supported across political lines, benefiting generations.
Nevertheless, other congressional Democrats with ex-officio board positions, including Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Hakeem Jeffries, contested the name change. They argue it lacks legal authority and violates federal law, which designates the center as a memorial to President Kennedy, needing Congressional action for any renaming.
Trump’s Influence and Board Restructure
Earlier this year, President Trump named himself the chair of the Kennedy Center. He dismissed former President Deborah Rutter, the previous board chair David Rubenstein, and several board members appointed by President Biden. New appointees include second lady Usha Vance, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Fox News host Laura Ingraham.
Trump had previously hinted at the name change, although he deferred to the board when directly questioned. His administration secured $257 million for the center’s repairs and maintenance. Previously known as The National Cultural Center, the Kennedy Center was named after President Kennedy following his assassination in 1963, authorized by President Lyndon Johnson in 1964.