John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic 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 stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
