Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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. Additional information will be provided shortly.
