John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
