John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The idea 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 planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
