John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic 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, crediting "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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision 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 planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
