Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure 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 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 prestige and accomplishment," 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 dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
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