Donald Trump has taken an unprecedented step in leaving his mark on Washington, D.C., this time by putting his name on one of the nation’s premier cultural institutions. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will now be known as the “Trump-Kennedy Centre,” following a vote by its board—handpicked by Trump himself earlier this year, the White House confirmed Thursday.
The change reflects the 79-year-old Republican’s broader effort to reshape the institution he long criticized as excessively “woke.” Since returning to office, Trump has pursued a series of high-profile projects, including plans to demolish the White House East Wing for a $400 million ballroom and to erect a massive triumphal arch.
“I was surprised by it; I was honoured by it,” Trump told reporters, despite having previously suggested renaming the iconic venue in public remarks. He now chairs the Kennedy Center board, a position he assumed after removing Democratic appointees following his second-term inauguration in January.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the board’s decision on X, claiming it was unanimous. She praised Trump’s contributions, citing his role in restoring the center’s finances, overseeing renovations, and enhancing its public reputation. “Congratulations to President Donald J. Trump, and likewise, congratulations to President Kennedy, because this will be a truly great team long into the future!” she wrote.
Read also: Trump Signs Executive Order Easing Marijuana Drug Status Now
However, not all board members agreed. Democratic congresswoman Joyce Beatty, who retains a board seat by mandate of Congress, said she was muted during the vote and could not voice her opposition, insisting the decision was neither on the agenda nor unanimous.
Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center represents the culmination of a long-standing effort to assert control over federally funded cultural institutions. During his first term, he had never attended the annual Kennedy Center Honours gala, where many recipients openly criticized his policies. This year, he personally presented awards to figures including actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, and the rock band KISS, signaling his intent to make the center his own.
Trump has also closely monitored renovations, frequently visiting the site to comment on the imported white marble and other design choices. Earlier this month, at the opening of a newly renamed peace institute, he jokingly referred to the venue as the “Trump-Kennedy Center,” a hint of what was to come. “Whoops, excuse me. Pardon me, such a terrible mistake,” he quipped at the time.
With this renaming, the Trump administration has cemented one of the most visible—and controversial—legacies of his return to Washington.