John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.