John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
