John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
