Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.