A board hand-picked by former US President Donald Trump has voted to rename one of Washington's most prominent cultural institutions. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is set to become the Trump-Kennedy Center, a move confirmed by the White House.
A Controversial Decision by a Trump-Appointed Board
The decisive vote took place on Thursday, 18 December 2025. The board, which Donald Trump himself chairs, was reconstituted with his supporters upon his return to office. This allowed the former president to advance a name change he had previously floated informally. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt publicly confirmed the decision, vigorously defending it.
Leavitt pointed to what she described as Donald Trump's "unbelievable work" in several key areas for the centre. She specifically cited his role in overseeing its reconstruction, securing its financial stability, and enhancing its international reputation during his administration.
Kennedy Family Opposition and Trump's Renewed Focus
The proposed renaming is expected to face significant public and political opposition. Members of the Kennedy family have already voiced strong disapproval of similar efforts in the past. Notably, Maria Shriver, a prominent member of the family, previously labelled analogous legislative attempts as "insane."
This push for a name change marks a stark shift in Trump's engagement with the institution. During his first term in office, he showed little discernible interest in the centre's affairs. However, after returning to power and replacing board members, he successfully secured substantial funding for major renovations, paving the way for this symbolic gesture.
Cultural Legacy and Political Symbolism
The move to rebrand the iconic performing arts venue intertwines cultural legacy with contemporary political symbolism. By linking his name with that of President John F. Kennedy, Trump places his imprint on a fixture of the American capital long associated with a political dynasty. The decision underscores the profound influence a president can wield over federal cultural bodies through strategic appointments.
As the announcement reverberates through Washington and beyond, the debate is set to intensify. Critics will likely view it as an act of political branding, while supporters will frame it as rightful recognition for transformative leadership. The coming weeks will reveal the full scale of the opposition and whether the Trump-Kennedy Center name becomes a permanent feature on the National Mall.
