Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.
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The board of trustees 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, attributing it to "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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
