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Workers on Saturday removed President Donald Trump's name from the facade of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. This action represents a significant defeat for the former president, who has a history of imprinting his name and likeness on public spaces.

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removed all physical signage on the Kennedy Center building and grounds

The removal of Trump's name was the result of prolonged legal disputes. Anti-Trump activists monitored the situation closely, with late-night thunderstorms on Friday temporarily halting the work. The center's Executive Director, Matt Floca, confirmed in a legal filing on Saturday that all physical signage bearing Trump's name had been removed from the building and its grounds.

Since returning to the White House in January 2025, Trump had asserted control over the arts center, appointing himself chairman and filling the governing board with loyalists. In December, the board voted to rename the venue "The Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts." His name was prominently displayed above Kennedy's on the facade, leading to show cancellations and a drop in ticket sales.

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one of my favorite places

Trump's name has also appeared on other Washington institutions, including the former US Institute of Peace, and on banners outside the Department of Justice and Department of Agriculture. The article also notes Trump's upcoming 80th birthday celebration, which includes a cage fight and plans for a commemorative $250 bill.

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a big win

Locals expressed relief and satisfaction with the name's removal. Washington resident Elise Serbaroli called it "a big win," stating she was "heartbroken" when Trump's name was initially added. Dawn Martin emphasized the importance of protecting the honor bestowed upon the building for John F. Kennedy. Tens of thousands of people followed the removal process via livestream.

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I was heartbroken when I saw everything that was going on, with his name getting put up there