John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted 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 decision was unanimous, 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Historical Roots
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 then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
