The Kennedy Center in Washington may face a two-year shutdown. On Tuesday, the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts once again voted to suspend operations, citing the institution's severe financial difficulties and the necessity for significant renovation work.
However, it's not yet certain that the closure will take effect. The board had made a similar decision last July, which was later overturned by federal judge Christopher Cooper, who described it as "misinformed and seemingly predetermined."
This situation is part of a broader legal dispute involving the Kennedy Center and U.S. President Donald Trump. At the heart of the conflict is Trump's request to add his name to the institution, linked to his efforts to fund the building's renovation.
In December 2025, Trump replaced the board members with his allies, who then elected him as president. Shortly after, the board approved adding his name to the center's title.
This decision sparked numerous protests and a series of boycotts. Several events and concerts were canceled, including one scheduled for New Year's Eve.
Judge Cooper has intervened multiple times, ruling that the board cannot unilaterally change the center's name. According to the Kennedy Center's charter, any name change requires Congressional approval, which Trump has not secured.
Just an hour before the board meeting that approved the new two-year closure, Cooper issued another ruling reaffirming the illegitimacy of adding Trump's name.
President Trump, who attended the board meeting, later commented on the decision via Truth Social. He stated that the Kennedy Center would close immediately but clarified that renovation work would not begin until the legal dispute over the center's name is resolved.
The recent vote does not yet conclude the matter. The future of the Kennedy Center remains tied to the naming controversy and potential new court rulings on the closure.
(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved