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 renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Venue
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic 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 future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
