John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure 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 approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal 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 dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
