John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new 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 decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.