Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
Image Source
The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed 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 historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
