John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
