John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
Image Source
The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
