John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center began 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.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
