Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially 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 Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved 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 historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
