Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
