John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per 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.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
