John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed 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, crediting "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 prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based 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.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
