Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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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.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
