Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
