John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.
