John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
