Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
