John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
