Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to 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, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center originated 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 report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.
