Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
