Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal 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 named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
