Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
