Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
