Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
