John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The vision 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 future venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.