John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
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 dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
