John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
