Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated 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.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
