Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.