Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name 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, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal 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 named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
