Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
