Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
