Kennedy Center Keeps Scaffolding and Tarp Amid Legal Battle Over Trump Name Removal
For more than two months, the entrance of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., has been covered with scaffolding and a tarp following the removal of Donald Trump's name in June, as mandated by a federal judge who ruled it should honor John F. Kennedy. The Department of Justice claims the scaffolding is necessary for “water testing and structural repairs,” yet plaintiffs, including Rep. Joyce Beatty, contend this violates the court's decision. The board appointed by Trump is proposing a renovation costing $250 million, which could rise to over $560 million, aiming to restore Trump's name and rebrand the area as "President Donald J. Trump Plaza." Beatty's lawsuit aims to halt these alterations, with renovations projected to conclude by summer 2028.
Key facts
- Scaffolding and tarp have been at Kennedy Center entrance for over two months.
- Workers removed Donald Trump's name from the marble facade in June.
- Federal judge ruled the venue can only be named after John F. Kennedy.
- Justice Department says scaffolding is needed for roof repairs.
- Rep. Joyce Beatty's lawsuit challenges the Trump-led changes.
- Board voted to close venue for two years for renovations.
- Trump's name will be restored with inscription 'Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump'.
- Renovation plan from JLL expected to cost about $250 million.
- Renovations expected to be completed by summer 2028.
Entities
Institutions
- Kennedy Center
- Department of Justice
- Congress
- JLL
- The Independent
Locations
- Washington, D.C.
- United States