Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned 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 declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
