Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson 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 preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. More details will be published soon.
