John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
