Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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.
Further details are emerging. More details will be provided shortly.
