Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for 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 then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.
