Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson 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 preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
