Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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 approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
