President Trump Hints at Renaming Kennedy Center Amid Epstein Scandal

President Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested renaming the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after himself, most recently during an August 2025 Oval Office press conference where he hinted the change might occur "in a week or so." This follows earlier social media posts and legislative efforts by Congress to rename the center, though such a change requires congressional approval and faces legal challenges due to the center's charter and existing laws protecting its name. Trump has taken a personal interest in the Kennedy Center since assuming office, including visiting the site multiple times, overseeing a $257 million renovation bill, and replacing the center's leadership with his appointees. Despite Trump's assertions and the introduction of a bill proposing the renaming, the Kennedy Center continues to operate under its original name, honoring President John F. Kennedy. The announcement of the center hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, was also made by Trump at the Oval Office, linking his ambitions for the venue with major upcoming events. Trump's actions have stirred controversy, including backlash from artists and staff unionization efforts at the institution.