Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The vision 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 dedicated to his memory.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.
