John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted 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 decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
