Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center began 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. Further context will be published soon.
