Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name 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 vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
