John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
Image Source
The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially 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 dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
