The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., has undergone a name change to the Trump-Kennedy Center, as decided by a board vote on December 18, 2025. This decision was made by a board appointed by President Donald Trump, who expressed surprise and honor at the unanimous vote. The name change has raised significant legal concerns, as statutes from the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson administrations enshrined the original name in federal law, suggesting that a new law would be necessary for any alteration.

Members of the Kennedy family and various lawmakers from both political parties have voiced objections to the name change. Former Representative Joseph Kennedy III stated that the center serves as a memorial to President Kennedy and cannot be renamed without legislative action, similar to the Lincoln Memorial. Additionally, six Democratic lawmakers who are ex-officio members of the Kennedy Center board have pledged to hold the Trump administration accountable for what they describe as a violation of federal law.

Some Republican lawmakers, including Senator Shelly Moore Capito, have indicated that they believe a name change would require Congressional legislation, acknowledging the legal complexities involved. Senate Majority Leader John Thune also noted the need to clarify whether the name change is permissible under existing law.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the board meeting process, with Representative Joyce Beatty alleging that she was muted during discussions and unable to voice her opposition to the name change. The Kennedy Center's vice president of public relations clarified that Beatty is not a voting member of the board but was allowed to listen in on the meeting.

This situation highlights the intersection of political influence, legal frameworks, and the preservation of cultural institutions, raising questions about the implications of such changes on public trust and the integrity of memorials.