Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The governing board of the renowned 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 declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a national 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. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
