John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure 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 extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will 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 expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.