John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the historic 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 planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
