Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted 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 decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.