Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name 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, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving 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 added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea 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 then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.
Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.
