Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its 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 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.