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Kennedy Center Board Votes to Add Trump Name

8/21/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Kennedy Center board voted to add President Donald Trump’s name to the façade.
Judge Christopher Cooper previously ordered the Trump inscription removed as unlawful.
Board approved a two-year closure to fund a $250 million renovation.
Board also approved renaming the grounds “President Donald Trump Plaza.”
Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH) seeks an emergency order to block the change before Sept 8.

History

Historical Context

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts opened in Washington, D.C., in 1971 with a 2,500-seat auditorium honoring President Kennedy. Guided by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and funded by Congress, the inaugural board oversaw a $70 million budget. The proposal to add former President Donald Trump’s name has prompted a federal injunction and a congressional lawsuit.

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Story summary

The Kennedy Center board voted to add President Donald Trump’s name to the façade.
Judge Christopher Cooper previously ordered the Trump inscription removed as unlawful.
Board approved a two-year closure to fund a $250 million renovation.
Board also approved renaming the grounds “President Donald Trump Plaza.”
Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH) seeks an emergency order to block the change before Sept 8.

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