John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
