Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 continued.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.