John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name 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, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
