John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined 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 intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
