Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.
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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, 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.
Context of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.
Original Concept
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
