Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Inception
The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed 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. More details will be added as it becomes available.
