John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly 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 Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.