Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will 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, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
