Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
