John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
