John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal 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.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
