Kennedy Center board votes to add Trump’s name to DC arts institution

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Edward HelmoreDecember 18, 2025 at 11:16 PM

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The Kennedy Center board in Washington D.C. reportedly voted to rename the institution, currently named after President John F. Kennedy, to the "Trump-Kennedy Center." The White House cited Donald Trump's efforts in saving the building through reconstruction, financial support, and reputation enhancement as the reason for the change. However, Joe Kennedy III, grandson of John F. Kennedy, questioned the legality of the name change, referencing the center's establishment by federal law as a memorial. This follows previous proposals, including renaming the Opera House after Melania Trump, and is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape arts and culture institutions in Washington D.C. Critics point to a federal statute prohibiting additional memorials within the Kennedy Center.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington DC ×230% Karoline Leavitt 50% Joe Kennedy III 50% Donald Trump ×4100% John F Kennedy ×2100% Kennedy Center ×4100%

Keywords

kennedy center 100% donald trump 90% name change 80% arts and culture 70% john f kennedy 70% washington dc 60% white house 50% federal law 50% memorial 40%