John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal 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 provided shortly.
