Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned 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 declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
