John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 provided shortly.
