John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
