Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal 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.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
