Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by 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 promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.
