Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be published soon.
