Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious 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 stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept 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 named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
