Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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 decision was unanimous, crediting "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 added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a federal 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
