John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center originated 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. Additional information will be provided shortly.
