John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
