A federal court filing reveals the Kennedy Center will not attempt to restore President Donald Trump’s name to the building’s facade until at least September 8, following a contentious board vote to add his name back to the structure.
The Kennedy Center’s board, which includes several members appointed by Trump, had previously voted to close the facility for two years as part of a $285 million renovation plan. In a joint filing submitted overnight, the board confirmed it would not proceed with plans to restore Trump’s name before the Labor Day holiday, citing the need for additional legal arguments. The filing also outlined the board’s proposal to rename the plaza in front of the building “President Donald J. Trump Plaza” and to add Trump’s name to the facade in the format: “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump.”
If the $100 million Trump Kennedy Center Fund reaches its target, the facade would also include the phrase “Endowed by the Trump Kennedy Center Fund.”
Court documents and legal disputes
The filing was submitted in response to a lawsuit brought by Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, an ex-officio member of the Kennedy Center’s board. Beatty’s legal team has urged U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper to issue a ruling before September 8, arguing that the board’s actions may violate a prior court order requiring Trump’s name to be removed. In their motion, Beatty’s lawyers stated there is “every reason to believe that Defendants will attempt to effectuate some or part of this latest unlawful resolution at the earliest opportunity after September 8.”
The Kennedy Center has defended its actions, stating in court filings that the scaffolding and tarp covering the entrance are part of ongoing construction activities, including water testing and structural repairs to the roof. The board also argued that the tarp serves to protect the marble paneling during renovations.
Renovation and closure timeline
The board’s decision to close the Kennedy Center for two years was made after considering a $285 million renovation plan, which would be funded by $256.7 million allocated by Congress last year. An alternative plan involving partial closures over four years was rejected due to higher costs and “substantial safety concerns,” according to a sworn declaration by Kennedy Center Executive Director Matt Floca.
The renovation is intended to address structural and safety issues at the performing arts venue, which has faced criticism for deferred maintenance in recent years.
Legal and political context
The dispute over Trump’s name on the Kennedy Center’s facade stems from a 2021 court order requiring its removal, following a legal challenge. The Kennedy Center’s board, which includes several Trump appointees, has since sought to restore his name as part of a broader effort to commemorate Trump’s contributions to the institution. The board’s actions have drawn criticism from opponents, who argue that the move violates the separation of historical preservation and political legacy.
The legal battle is ongoing, with both sides presenting their arguments to the court. The Kennedy Center has stated it will not proceed with name restoration until after September 8, pending further legal review.