John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change 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 be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "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 added.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
