John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
