John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
