John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably 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
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
