Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, especially 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
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.
