Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
