John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
