John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "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 grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.