Kennedy Family Pushes Back Against Trump-Kennedy Center Renaming
The Kennedy family has voiced strong opposition after the announcement that the famous Kennedy Center will be renamed after former President Donald Trump.
Board Votes to Rename Center
On December 18, the Kennedy Center board voted unanimously to rename the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as the Trump-Kennedy Center. The decision aims to recognize Trump’s role in restoring the building’s financial stability and reputation, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Leavitt shared the news on X, writing:
“The highly respected Board of the Kennedy Center…have just voted unanimously to rename the Kennedy Center to the Trump-Kennedy Center because of the unbelievable work President Trump has done…Not only financially, but also in reconstruction and reputation. Congratulations to President Trump, and likewise to President Kennedy!”
Joe Kennedy III Questions Legality
The announcement quickly drew criticism. Former Democratic Representative Joe Kennedy III challenged the move, questioning its legality.
“The Kennedy Center is a living memorial to a fallen president and named for President Kennedy by federal law. It can no more be renamed than the Lincoln Memorial, no matter what anyone says,” he wrote.
Kerry Kennedy Condemns Name Change
Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy and niece of John F. Kennedy, also opposed the decision. She criticized the Trump administration for repressing artistic expression, a key mission of the center.
“President Trump stands in opposition to these values, and his name should not be placed alongside President Kennedy’s,” she wrote on X, highlighting the contrast between Trump’s actions and Kennedy’s legacy of justice, equality, and compassion.
Maria Shriver Voices Disbelief
Maria Shriver, daughter of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, expressed her shock at the renaming. Like other family members, she questioned placing Trump’s name alongside President Kennedy’s, citing the original mission and legacy of the center.
Trump Responds
Trump called the renaming “surprising and an honor.” Speaking to reporters, he praised the board members, whom he hand-selected earlier this year.
“The board is very distinguished, the most distinguished people in the country. We saved the building because it was in bad shape—physically, financially, and in every other way—and now it’s very solid, very strong,” he said.
Controversy Continues
The renaming of a national landmark has ignited a heated debate. Kennedy family members emphasize the center’s historic mission and legacy, while Trump and his supporters frame the change as a recognition of his role in the building’s restoration. The debate over the Trump-Kennedy Center appears far from over.
