Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
