Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly 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 Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
