John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
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 future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
