Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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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, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center originated 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 published soon.
