Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
