In a move that has ignited fierce debate in Washington and beyond, President Donald J. Trump’s handpicked board at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts voted on December 19, 2025, to add his name to the iconic venue, rebranding it as “The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.” Workers swiftly installed new signage on the building’s exterior, and updates were made to reflect the change, though the official website appears to retain the original name as of December 23.
The decision, described by Trump as a unanimous vote to honor his role in “saving” the center through financial support and renovations, has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats, arts advocates, and members of the Kennedy family. Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy, publicly condemned the action, calling it a “complete lack of moral compass.” Legal experts argue the rename violates federal law, which designates the center as a “living memorial” to President John F. Kennedy and requires congressional approval for any changes.
On December 22, Representative Joyce Beatty, a Ohio Democrat and Kennedy Center board member, filed a lawsuit against Trump and the board, seeking to reverse the “illegal” rebranding and remove his name. Beatty’s complaint accuses the administration of a “flagrant violation” of the law, emphasizing that the center’s name cannot be altered without legislative action. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed this, stating, “Only Congress can rename the Kennedy Center. The wannabe king and his sycophantic minions can’t do it.”
Trump allies have defended the move, framing it as recognition for his contributions. The president himself posted on Truth Social about hosting the annual Kennedy Center Honors on December 23, referring to the venue as the “Trump Kennedy Center” and soliciting feedback on his emcee skills. Honorees include Sylvester Stallone, KISS, and Gloria Gaynor, with the event airing on CBS.
Social media has exploded with reactions, from MAGA supporters celebrating the “upgrade” to critics decrying it as vanity-driven vandalism. Some posts allege “dirty tricks” influenced the board’s vote, though no evidence has surfaced. The controversy fits a pattern, as Trump recently announced naming new Navy warships after himself.
Contrary to viral claims suggesting the board rejected Trump’s proposal and banned him, the facts show the opposite: The board approved the change, but it now faces legal challenges that could undo it. As the lawsuit proceeds, the episode underscores ongoing tensions over presidential power, historical preservation, and public institutions in a polarized era.
