John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
