John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based 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 provided shortly.