Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
