John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
Image Source
The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
