Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per 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, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined 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 intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision 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 planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
