John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted 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, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
