John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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 unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The vision for a national 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
