Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted 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 decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began 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.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
