Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the prestigious 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 declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
