Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
