Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
