John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson 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 is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
