John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
