Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
