Kennedy Center misses deadline to remove Trump’s name as government asks for 12-hour extension

The Department of Justice’s request for an administrative stay of a court order to remove President Donald Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center has been denied by a federal appeals court. The Trump administration had requested a short extension of time to remove the name due to safety concerns for workers caused by thunderstorms in the District of Columbia. However, the appeals court ruled against the request and crews were seen working on scaffolding near the building bearing Trump’s name.

The Trump administration argued that removing the name would hinder fundraising efforts, delay repairs, and confuse the public. They claimed that only President Trump could rebuild and raise funds for the Kennedy Center, making it a world-renowned institution. However, the court found that the administration failed to show irreparable harm if the name was removed.

Judge Christopher Cooper had previously ordered the removal of references to the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts,” as well as the “Trump Kennedy Center” from the building and grounds. The court found that the rebranding violated the law as only Congress has the authority to change the name of the institution.

The lawsuit was brought by Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty, a member of the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees. She urged the court to deny the administration’s request to lift the ruling, describing it as a last-minute attempt to delay the removal of Trump’s name.

In response to the ruling, Trump indicated on social media that he may no longer pursue his planned renovation of the center. He emphasized the need for freedom to bring the institution back to its former glory physically, financially, and artistically.

The appeals court’s decision upholds the original ruling that found the attempt to rename and close the Kennedy Center for renovations illegal. The removal of Trump’s name from the building and grounds is expected to be completed by Saturday morning.