Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new 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 decision was unanimous, citing "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 grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
