Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
