Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
