John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new 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 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision 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 future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
