Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
