John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees 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 stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center originated 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.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
