John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted 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 unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
