John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.
