John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based 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 named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.