Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy 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 be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a federal 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.
Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.
