Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
Image Source
The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
