Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder 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. Further context will be provided shortly.
