Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new 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, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
