John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed 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 is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
