Story perspectives

Judge Orders Kennedy Center to Remove Trump Name

6/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Kennedy Center removed “The Trump Kennedy Center” from its website and deleted President Donald Trump’s name from YouTube pages.
Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that adding Trump’s name violated Congress’s authority over the Center’s designation.
The court ordered signage removal by June 12.
Rep. Joyce Beatty of Ohio filed the lawsuit that prompted the order.
Vice president of public relations Roma Daravi said the Center is complying while reviewing options.

History

Historical Context

The Kennedy Center, authorized by the National Cultural Center Act of 1958 and opened in 1971 as a living memorial to John F. Kennedy, cost $70 million. In December 2025 the board, after Trump’s takeover, added his name to the façade, prompting Rep. Joyce Beatty’s lawsuit. On June 12 2026 Judge Christopher Cooper invoked the 1958 law, ordering removal of Trump’s name and reaffirming congressional naming authority.

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Story summary

The Kennedy Center removed “The Trump Kennedy Center” from its website and deleted President Donald Trump’s name from YouTube pages.
Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that adding Trump’s name violated Congress’s authority over the Center’s designation.
The court ordered signage removal by June 12.
Rep. Joyce Beatty of Ohio filed the lawsuit that prompted the order.
Vice president of public relations Roma Daravi said the Center is complying while reviewing options.

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