Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned 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 declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
