Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept 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. More details will be added as it becomes available.
