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 iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson 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 preserving 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 expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
