Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will 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 likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
