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 iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 added as it becomes available.
