Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided 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, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
