John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
