John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The vision for a national 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.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
