John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
