Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed 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. Additional information will be published soon.
