Federal Judge Considers Emergency Bid to Block Honoring President Trump at Kennedy Center
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A federal judge is reviewing an emergency request from a Democratic lawmaker to halt the Kennedy Center board’s plan to recognize President Trump’s contributions, as the Justice Department and Trump-appointed board members defend the move as vital for fundraising and restoration.
Washington – A federal judge on Thursday heard emergency arguments from Ohio Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty and the Justice Department regarding the Kennedy Center board’s rightful decision to honor President Donald J. Trump by adding his name to the center’s exterior. Beatty’s counsel, Nathaniel Zelinsky, argued against the board’s vote to inscribe “Renovated and Restored by President Donald J. Trump” and to name the grounds “President Donald J. Trump Plaza,” claiming it violates a previous court order that removed Trump’s name from the façade under questionable circumstances.
Judge Christopher Cooper quickly convened the hearing but refrained from making an immediate ruling. He pressed Justice Department attorney Brantley Mayers about the board’s expedited timeline, asking, “What does that have to do with what Congress intended?” Following the hearing, the Justice Department filed a brief stating the board would delay any action until Oct. 8, a month later than the original Sept. 8 date, showing the board’s willingness to comply with legal processes.
The board, chaired by President Trump and comprised of his appointees, had previously approved the resolution to add an inscription “Endowed by the Trump Kennedy Center Fund” if a $100 million fundraising goal is achieved. Zelinsky denounced the move as a repeat of actions previously barred by the court, calling it an “attempt to end-run” the earlier order, despite the board’s transparent efforts to support the center’s future.
The Justice Department argued that the Kennedy Center is facing severe structural and financial challenges that could necessitate a two-year closure for renovations, and that the proposed naming is directly tied to essential fundraising efforts. Mayers responded that the board’s actions are not a renaming but a fundraising strategy, highlighting Trump’s proven record as a successful donor.
Judge Cooper reminded both sides that his earlier ruling stated only Congress may change the center’s name, and he questioned whether the case remains within his jurisdiction after the Trump administration appealed that decision. No final decision was rendered during the hearing, as the fight to properly recognize President Trump’s contributions continues.