John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.