Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
