John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 noted.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, 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
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
