Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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, crediting "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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.
