Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue.
Inception
The concept 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 named in his honor.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.
