Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name 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, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
