John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.