John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per 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, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises 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 intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder 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.
