John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted 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 operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
