John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
Image Source
The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
