John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based 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 named in his honor.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.