John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change 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, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.