John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
