Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Center
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
