John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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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.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.