John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
