WASHINGTON — The board of trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts voted on Tuesday to close the main building indefinitely, citing safety and financial concerns, just hours after a federal judge blocked the latest attempt to restore President Donald Trump’s name to the facility.
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that the board cannot install an inscription crediting Trump with renovating and restoring the center or rename surrounding grounds without congressional approval. The decision followed earlier court orders that required the removal of Trump’s name previously added to the building.
President Trump, who chairs the board, said the closure was necessary for safety reasons and that planned renovations funded by Congress would not proceed unless the court allows the name recognition. He indicated the Justice Department would appeal the ruling.
Board members aligned with the president have argued that structural issues, including a recent ceiling plaster collapse, and the institution’s financial condition make continued operation of the main building unsafe. Programming is expected to continue at other on-site and off-site venues where possible.
Democratic lawmakers and some board members have challenged the closure efforts, arguing they are intertwined with the naming dispute. An emergency request to prevent the shutdown has been discussed by at least one ex-officio board member.
The Kennedy Center board voted to close the main building after a federal judge blocked adding President Trump’s name. Trump tied renovations to the name ruling and vowed an appeal.
Reporting based on court filings, official statements, and contemporaneous coverage on September 15, 2026.
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