Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove 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 taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
