Judge Rules Against Adding Trump’s Name to Kennedy Center; Board Votes to Close Building

A federal judge ruled on September 15, 2026, that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts cannot add President Donald Trump’s name to its building, citing legal restrictions that require Congressional authorization for such memorials ^[1][2]. U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper’s decision follows a previous ruling in May 2026, which ordered the removal of Trump’s name from the building ^[1].

On the same day, the Kennedy Center’s board, which is aligned with President Trump, voted to close most of the main building, citing safety concerns and the need for renovations ^[2][3]. The board’s resolution pointed to a recent partial ceiling collapse and other structural issues as reasons for the urgent closure ^[3].

The closure decision was made just hours after Judge Cooper’s ruling, which blocked the addition of Trump’s name to the building ^[2]. Despite the closure, programming is expected to continue at the Kennedy Center’s Reach complex and other off-site venues, including events such as the Kennedy Center Honors and performances by the National Symphony Orchestra ^[3].

The Justice Department has appealed the latest ruling and is seeking to lift the injunction that currently prevents the center’s closure ^[1].

What Is Known

Judge Cooper’s ruling is based on a federal statute that only Congress can authorize the addition of memorials to federal buildings ^[1]. The Kennedy Center board’s decision to close the main building was influenced by structural concerns, including a partial ceiling collapse ^[3].

What Remains Unclear

There is a dispute regarding the necessity of the immediate closure, with some arguing that the board exaggerated the dangers ^[3]. Additionally, claims that President Trump threatened to withhold renovation funds unless his name was restored have not been independently corroborated by multiple sources ^[1].