John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
