John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
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 planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
