From Business Insider · Talia Lakritz · · 1m 30s
Kennedy Center board votes to shut the doors
Trump's appointees voted to close the arts center while a court fight over his name on the building is still going.
In brief
Trump's appointees voted to close the arts center while a court fight over his name on the building is still going. Only Congress can rename the Kennedy Center, a judge ruled, so Trump's name on it and the closure depend on the appeals court. Originally reported by Business Insider.
The board votes to close
On Tuesday, the Trump-appointed board voted to close the Kennedy Center. It is the latest step in the administration's push to control the Washington landmark.
A new name on the wall
In December 2025 the board voted to rename it the Trump Kennedy Center, even though people questioned whether that was legal. New signs went up with both presidents' names.
“The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.”
A judge blocks the plan
A federal judge blocked both the renaming and the closure for renovations. Congress created the center, so only Congress can change its name. The DC Circuit appeals court is now hearing the case.
The center says safety first
A spokesperson called the renovations urgent and long overdue. The center says it will keep pursuing the work through all legal means.
“The Board's decision today reflects sound judgment and a clear prioritization of safety above all else.”
Built as an artistic mecca
Congress set up the National Cultural Center in 1958 as a home for the performing arts in the capital. After John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, it was renamed in his memory.
Five decades on stage
Since it opened in 1971, the center has hosted the Kennedy Center Honors along with shows and exhibits in many genres. Now its future depends on the courts.
The short version
Only Congress can rename the Kennedy Center, a judge ruled, so Trump's name on it and the closure depend on the appeals court.
