Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed 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 provided shortly.
