Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 noted.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.
