Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
