Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees 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.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.