Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea 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 future venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
