John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure 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, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal 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.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.