Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 added.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision 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 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.
