Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea 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 future venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
