Kennedy Center To Be Renamed Trump-Kennedy Center

Written by Chantal Gapato  |  December 19, 2025

The board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has voted to rename the venue the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to statements released by the White House. The decision has sparked significant controversy, particularly within the arts community and among members of the Kennedy family.

White House officials stated that the board approved the name change following President Donald Trump’s involvement in securing funding and overseeing recent renovations at the centre. President Trump later acknowledged the decision during remarks from the Oval Office.

The Kennedy Center is one of the most important performing arts institutions in the United States and has long been central to classical music, opera and ballet. Since opening in 1971, it has served as the home of the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera, while also hosting leading international orchestras, opera companies and soloists. The venue has been a regular site for major premieres, festivals and touring productions in classical music.

Following his return to office, President Trump removed existing board members and appointed new allies to the board. He was later named chairman, with adviser Richard Grenell becoming board president. Other board members currently include Attorney General Pam Bondi, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Second Lady Usha Vance and other administration officials and political allies.

The administration has pointed to approximately 257 million dollars in congressional funding secured for renovations and operational costs at the centre. The venue has recently hosted large-scale events, including the FIFA World Cup draw.

Although White House officials said the vote was unanimous, at least one board member has disputed this claim. Ohio Representative Joyce Beatty stated that she was unable to express opposition during the board call. Members of the Kennedy family have also criticized the decision, emphasizing that the centre was established as a living memorial to President Kennedy under federal law.

Construction of a national performing arts centre began in the 1950s, and after President Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, Congress formally designated the venue as his memorial in a 1964 law. Legal scholars and lawmakers have noted that because the name was set by legislation, a congressional vote would be required to officially change it. However, branding changes could still be implemented without congressional approval.

The leadership changes have coincided with criticism from artists and arts organizations, with several productions and performers withdrawing from scheduled appearances. Local media outlets have reported declines in ticket sales and subscriptions since the new board took control of the centre.

Earlier this year, President Trump stated that he played a major role in selecting the most recent Kennedy Center Honorees. The honorees included actor Sylvester Stallone and members of the rock band KISS, marking a notable shift in the profile of artists recognized by the institution.

During the ceremony, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump received a mixed reaction from the audience, with both applause and boos reported as they entered the presidential box.