Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
