Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work 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 proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Institution
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
