John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed 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 approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
