John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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 decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," 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 completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
