Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.