Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.
