Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic 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 approval was consensus, 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder 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 added as it becomes available.
