Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
