John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
