Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
