John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure 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 vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
