Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new 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, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined 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 proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
