Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided 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 approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
