Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a national 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.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
