John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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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, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
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 planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
