Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
