Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
