John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed 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 decision was unanimous, 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
