John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
