Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed 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.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.
