John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
