John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
