John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
