John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will 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 shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
