Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center began 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. Additional information will be provided shortly.
