Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept for a national 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 report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
