Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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.
