Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
