John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting 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 cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began 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 is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
