John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
Image Source
The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began 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. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
