John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial 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 decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
