John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
