Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
