Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
