Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
