John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
