Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
