John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. More details will be provided shortly.
