John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder 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.
