Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
