John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed 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. More details will be published soon.
