Judge blocks Kennedy Center from reinstating Trump’s name, board votes to close venue

A federal judge has issued a ruling prohibiting the Kennedy Center board from placing President Donald Trump’s name on the building or its grounds in any capacity. This legal decision marks a continuation of ongoing disputes regarding the naming rights and management of the iconic performing arts venue.

Following the judge's decision on Tuesday, the Kennedy Center board voted to close the facility immediately. President Trump stated on social media that the board reached this decision "almost unanimously," citing safety concerns and the need to begin a process of reconstruction.

The President indicated that the planned renovation project is contingent upon the outcome of the legal proceedings regarding the facility's name. According to his statement, if the D.C. Circuit Court rules against the board's naming proposal and the decision is not overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court, the planned renovations will not proceed.

Legal representatives from the Department of Justice are expected to file an expedited appeal regarding the naming prohibition this Friday. This follows a previous ruling by a federal judge that had already barred the center from closing for a two-year renovation period as originally sought by the President.

President Trump noted that $17 million in funds he raised has been deposited into the Kennedy Center’s account to support the institution's operations. The President joined the board meeting remotely on Tuesday, during which the decision to shutter the facility was finalized.