Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
Image Source
The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
