John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
