Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach 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 stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
