John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
