John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job 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 added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
