Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted 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 approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
