Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned 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 announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
