John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based 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 dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
