John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
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 future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
