Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "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 added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.
