Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
