John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed 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, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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. More details will be added as it becomes available.
