John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
