Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
