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Trump Criticizes Judge Who Halted Kennedy Center Renovations, Threatens Congressional Transfer

President Trump blasted the judge who ordered his name removed from the Kennedy Center and paused renovations, stating the judge should "be ashamed" given the center is "structurally dangerous." Trump added he would transfer the institution

Variety Music·May 29, 2026·via Variety Music

Trump Criticizes Judge Who Halted Kennedy Center Renovations, Threatens Congressional Transfer

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May 29, 2026 2:51pm PT

Trump Blasts Judge Who Ordered President’s Name Removed From Kennedy Center and Halted Renovations, Says He Will Transfer Institution to Congressional Control

By Todd Spangler

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Todd Spangler

NY Digital Editor

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President Donald Trump took aim at the judge who halted his plans to renovate the Kennedy Center — and ordered Trump’s name taken off the building — saying the judge should “be ashamed of himself,” because the center is “structurally dangerous” and a threat to public safety.

In the wake of the judge’s ruling, Trump said he will order the Commerce Department to transfer the Kennedy Center to Congress “so they can make a determination as to what to do with it.”