In December 2025, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was officially renamed the Trump Kennedy Center, a decision made by a board of trustees appointed by former President Donald Trump. This change has sparked controversy and led to the cancellation of numerous performances, including a Christmas Eve concert by jazz musician Chuck Redd, who cited the renaming as a reason for his withdrawal.

Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell has threatened legal action against Redd, claiming that the cancellation reflects a broader trend of intimidation against artists by certain political factions. Grenell characterized Redd's decision as a political stunt and indicated that the center would seek $1 million in damages.

The Kennedy Center has a long history of hosting significant cultural events, including the Christmas Eve Jazz Jam, which Redd has led since 2006. Following the renaming, at least 26 performances have been canceled, with 15 of those cancellations initiated by the artists themselves. Notable figures such as Issa Rae and the band Guster have also canceled their shows in protest of the changes at the center.

The fallout from the renaming has implications for future programming, as prominent productions like Hamilton have been withdrawn, with creators expressing that the center's new identity does not align with its original mission of celebrating diverse artistic expression.