Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted 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, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
