John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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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 stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain 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 stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
