Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover 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 planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
