Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed 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 is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
