Judge says Kennedy Center board broke law putting Trump’s name on building and blocks closure

A federal judge has ruled that the addition of President Donald Trump's name to the Kennedy Center was illegal, noting that only Congress holds the authority to rename the institution. U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ordered the removal of Trump's name from the building's facade and all official materials within two weeks. Furthermore, the judge blocked the administration's planned two-year closure of the venue for major renovations, citing that the board's decision-making process was ill-informed and legally flawed. In response to the ruling, President Trump announced he would abandon the renovation project and return control of the center to Congress. The legal action followed lawsuits filed by cultural preservation groups and Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty, who expressed concerns over the scope of the proposed changes. While the Kennedy Center leadership maintains the building requires significant restoration, the court emphasized that the board exceeded its statutory authority. This decision marks a significant setback for the President's ongoing efforts to leave his personal mark on historic Washington D.C. landmarks. Despite the ruling, the administration indicated it would explore legal avenues to appeal the decision. The Kennedy Center remains a living monument to President John F. Kennedy, and the court's intervention ensures the venue will not undergo the planned overhaul under the current administration's terms.