Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name 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 decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
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 planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
