John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided 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 tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
