Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began 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.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
