Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain 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 been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.