Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
