John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed 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 approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
