John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
