Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
