John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided 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 vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
