John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
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 dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
