Kennedy Center to Remove Trump’s Name Following Court Ruling

The Kennedy Center has begun the process of removing references to President Donald Trump after a federal judge determined that his name had been illegally added. Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations at the Kennedy Center, confirmed their compliance with the court’s decision. Daravi stated they are exploring all legal avenues to maintain the center’s revitalization while acknowledging Trump’s leadership.

A memo from the Kennedy Center’s Office of General Counsel directed staff to update email signatures, letterheads, and documents to reflect the center’s name as ‘The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts’ or simply ‘Kennedy Center.’ These adjustments must be implemented by June 12. The directive followed a May 29 ruling by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper which also halted plans to close the venue for substantial renovations scheduled for July.

Responding to the verdict, Trump announced plans to step back from the renovation and transfer control to Congress. Previously known as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the venue had undergone a shift during Trump’s presidency. Following the ruling, Trump criticized Judge Cooper on social media, labeling him an ‘anti-Trump Hater.’ He expressed frustration over consistent legal challenges, mentioning prior setbacks like the Supreme Court’s rejection of his tariff proposals.

The revocation of Trump’s modifications represents a hindrance to his second-term ambitions of reshaping Washington’s landmarks. Meanwhile, the administration reported the completion of renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The pool’s bottom was painted in what Trump described as ‘American flag blue.’ Additionally, the White House East Wing was demolished for a new ballroom, and plans for an arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery are underway.

Reporting contributions by Associated Press writer Hillel Italie in New York.