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D.C. Circuit Rejects Trump's Bid to Reclaim Kennedy Center Name

7/9/2026

Summary

Trump Request Denied

The D.C. Circuit denied U.S. President Donald Trump’s request to restore his name to the Kennedy Center.
Judges Patricia Millett, Robert Wilkins and Gregory Katsas said Trump and the board showed no irreparable injury and gave no proof that fundraising would suffer.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper’s May 29 ruling that only Congress can rename the center blocked the board’s addition, prompting Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) to praise the decision.

Summary

Trump Orders Transfer

A hearing on July 28 will require Kennedy Center officials to explain how the Center will stay open during its $258 million renovation and why tarps still cover the façade.
President Donald Trump announced he would direct the Commerce Department to transfer Kennedy Center management to Congress.
Judge Christopher Cooper barred any shutdown after Trump claimed the Center would close for a two-year “complete rebuilding” starting July 4, 2026.

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Trump Request Denied

The D.C. Circuit denied U.S. President Donald Trump’s request to restore his name to the Kennedy Center.
Judges Patricia Millett, Robert Wilkins and Gregory Katsas said Trump and the board showed no irreparable injury and gave no proof that fundraising would suffer.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper’s May 29 ruling that only Congress can rename the center blocked the board’s addition, prompting Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) to praise the decision.

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