Lawmakers Push to Erase Trump’s Name from Kennedy Center
The decision to rename the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after former President Donald Trump has sparked significant controversy and legal challenges. Lawmakers are now actively pushing to erase Trump’s name from the prestigious institution located in Washington, D.C.
Legal and Legislative Challenges
A federal lawsuit led by Congressman Joyce Beatty, a Democrat from Ohio and a trustee of the Kennedy Center, claims the board violated the law. The lawsuit contends that the vote to add Trump’s name in December 2025 was unlawful.
- Beatty seeks a ruling that declares the Kennedy Center’s name should remain unchanged as designated by Congress.
- The legal action aims to nullify the board’s decision and restore the center’s original name.
Reports indicate that the Trump administration plans to respond to this lawsuit by the end of February.
Historical Context
Congress designated the Kennedy Center as a national memorial to President John F. Kennedy shortly after his assassination. According to Beatty, any change to its name necessitates an act of Congress.
She described the actions taken by Trump’s administration as reminiscent of authoritarian practices, focusing on the legality and integrity of the established name.
Cultural and Financial Implications
The renaming decision has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that the costs associated with updating signage and other materials could be significant, though the exact amount remains undisclosed.
Norm Eisen, an attorney involved in challenging the name change, emphasized the broader repercussions on the arts and cultural education due to this decision.
Congressional Response
In addition to Beatty’s lawsuit, other Congressional Democrats have introduced two bills aimed at undoing Trump’s naming rights.
- Rep. April McClain Delaney has proposed legislation that mandates the removal of any signage deviating from the Kennedy Center’s official designation.
- Rep. Stephen Lynch is seeking a formal denunciation from the House, arguing that the name change contravenes federal law.
During a recent speech, Rep. Steve Cohen, also a Democrat, criticized the renaming as a “sacrilege” and asserted that Trump’s actions undermine the legacy of President Kennedy, who was linked to cultural excellence.
Conclusion
The effort to erase Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center is ongoing, with both legal and legislative avenues being pursued. As more details unfold, the situation continues to provoke discussions about presidential legacy and the integrity of memorials in Washington, D.C.
