Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "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 proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
