John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The governing 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.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
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 dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
