Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision 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 future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
