John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated 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 is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
