John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began 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.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
