Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 added.
The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
