John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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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, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
