Kennedy Center Renamed as Trump’s Legacy Joins Cultural Icon
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has been renamed to the “Trump-Kennedy Center.” This change, announced on March 17, 2025, by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, was stated to have unanimous support from the Center’s board. The decision was attributed to President Donald Trump’s efforts in preserving the iconic structure.
Controversy Surrounding the Name Change
However, the renaming has sparked controversy. Ohio Democrat Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio member of the board, contested the claim of a unanimous vote. In a video, she alleged that her attempts to speak during the meeting were hindered, suggesting a lack of transparency.
Statements from the Kennedy Center
- Roma Daravi, Vice President of Public Relations, reiterated that the vote was indeed unanimous.
- A statement asserted that the new name reflects bipartisan support for America’s cultural center.
In response, several Democrats in Congress, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, questioned the legal authority behind the renaming. They highlighted that federal law designates the Center as a memorial to President Kennedy, stipulating that any name change requires Congressional approval.
Trump’s Influence at the Kennedy Center
This announcement follows Trump’s installation as chairman of the center, where he dismissed former president Deborah Rutter and previous board chair David Rubenstein, among others. He then restructured the board, appointing notable figures such as Second Lady Usha Vance and Fox News host Laura Ingraham.
Funding for Renovations
Earlier in the year, Trump hinted at the name change while addressing the media. He had earlier promised substantial funding, amounting to $257 million, for the Kennedy Center’s repairs and maintenance as part of his “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
Historical Context of the Kennedy Center
The venue, originally known as The National Cultural Center, was authorized for construction shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963 under President Lyndon Johnson. The Kennedy Center has since served as a cornerstone of American culture and arts.
