Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.
