John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
