Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
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 construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned 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.
