The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will now be known as the Trump-Kennedy Center, following a unanimous vote by its Board of Directors. The announcement was made by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt via Twitter on December 18, 2025.
A Shift in Leadership and Naming
The decision to rename the cultural institution comes after Donald Trump appointed himself Kennedy Center chairman in February. Shortly after this appointment, Ben Folds resigned from his position as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra in protest.
According to Leavitt’s statement, the Board cited President Trump’s work over the past year in “saving the building” – both in terms of reconstruction and financial stability – as the reason for the name change. The statement also expressed congratulations to President Kennedy, framing the new name as a “truly great team.”
Recent Performance and Events
Reports from CNBC indicate that Kennedy Center sales and staffing have “declined sharply” since Trump’s takeover. Despite this, President Trump recently hosted the Kennedy Center Honors, presenting awards to KISS, Sylvester Stallone, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and Michael Crawford. The band Cheap Trick performed at the event, stating their participation was to support KISS and promote the arts.
The Kennedy Center, which opened in 1971, has long been a Washington, DC landmark and the home of the annual Kennedy Center Honors, a presidential recognition of artistic achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the name change?
According to the White House press secretary, the Board of Directors voted unanimously to rename the Kennedy Center to the Trump-Kennedy Center due to President Trump’s work in “saving the building” through reconstruction, financial support, and reputation management.
Who resigned in protest of Trump’s involvement?
Ben Folds resigned as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra after Donald Trump appointed himself Kennedy Center chairman in February.
What artists were honored at the Kennedy Center Honors this year?
KISS, Sylvester Stallone, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and Phantom Of The Opera star Michael Crawford were honored at the Kennedy Center Honors hosted by President Trump earlier this month.
How will this change affect the Kennedy Center’s role as a non-partisan cultural institution?
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