Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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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, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
