John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
