John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and named allies in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision 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 named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
