Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
