U.S. District Court Judge Christopher Cooper ruled against renaming the Kennedy Center to include Donald Trump’s name, sparking criticism from the former president. Cooper, married to attorney Amy Jeffress, faced allegations of bias from Trump.
Alleged Conflicts of Interest
Jeffress, a former Obama-era Justice Department lawyer, has represented several figures critical of Trump. Her clients include former FBI attorney Lisa Page and former President Joe Biden. Trump labeled her as a “Radical Left Democrat” influencing Cooper’s decisions against him.
Trump pointed to Jeffress’ work for the House Jan. 6 committee and her lack of using the “Cooper” name, suggesting it hides a conflict of interest. He accused Cooper of bias because of his wife’s professional background, which includes advising on the Russia investigation and other high-profile cases.
Judicial Ruling Details
Cooper’s ruling on May 29 focused on the Kennedy Center board exceeding its authority by renaming the center. He stated that only Congress could officially change its name. The center legally honors President John F. Kennedy, as outlined in its founding statute.
Criticism of Cooper is not new. Trump’s allies have previously questioned potential conflicts due to the involvement of Cooper’s wife in cases linked to the Crossfire Hurricane investigation. Cooper allowed a case involving attorney Michael Sussmann to proceed, although Sussmann was later acquitted.
Background on Amy Jeffress
Jeffress has been involved in multiple high-profile legal cases. She represented Page during scrutiny over the FBI’s handling of the Clinton email investigation. Her law firm was also involved in a lawsuit against Trump by E. Jean Carroll.
Since July 2025, Jeffress has served as Biden’s personal attorney in a lawsuit aiming to block the release of interview transcripts and recordings related to classified document investigations.
Cooper’s marriage to Jeffress in 1999 was officiated by Merrick Garland. At the time, Garland was a judge on the D.C. Circuit Court. Garland now serves as the Attorney General in the Biden administration.
Fox News contacted Cooper, Jeffress, and other involved parties for comments, but responses have not been disclosed.
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