John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new 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 approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
