Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
