Watch: Workers begin removing Trump's name from Kennedy Center after judge's order

Published 13 June 2026 · us

Workers began removing US President Donald Trump's name from the exterior of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday after a

Workers began removing US President Donald Trump's name from the exterior of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday after a federal court ruled that the renaming of the landmark venue was unlawful. According to AP, the operation started in the US capital hours after a judge rejected a final attempt by the Kennedy Center's board to stop the removal, clearing the way for workers to take down the signage bearing Trump's name. The development represents a significant setback for Trump's efforts to place his name on prominent public institutions following his return to the White House. Work Begins Under Cover Of Awnings On Saturday morning, a large white awning concealed much of the work taking place on the building's exterior. Loud noises could be heard from beneath the covering as crews worked to remove the signage. The activity attracted attention from passersby, with joggers and visitors stopping outside the arts centre to watch the operation unfold. Also Read | Woman techie jumps to death from 6th floor with 6-month-old; infant survives The work had originally been expected to take place overnight but was delayed because of adverse weather conditions. According to Kennedy Center Executive Director Matt Floca, "thunderstorms which presented safety concerns to workers" slowed the process.

The work was expected to be completed "in the early hours of the morning," Floca said in a statement. Crowds Gather To Witness Removal The removal effort drew considerable public interest. On Friday night, a crowd gathered outside the Kennedy Center as workers assembled scaffolding around the signage. Supporters of the court ruling occasionally cheered as preparations continued. Thousands of people also followed developments through livestreams, waiting for the moment the president's name would be removed from the building's facade. Also Read | Suspended for joining CJP protest, teacher reinstated after backlash The scene highlighted the intense public attention surrounding the dispute, which has become a flashpoint in a broader debate over politics, public institutions and presidential influence. Judge Rules Renaming Was Unlawful The removal follows a ruling issued by US District Judge Christopher Cooper on May 29. In his decision, Cooper concluded that the renaming of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was unlawful and stated that only Congress has the authority to change the name of the institution. The judge ordered the administration to remove Trump's name from the marble facade and from any associated materials within 14 days. Earlier this week, the Kennedy Center complied with part of the order by removing references to Trump's name from its website.