Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
