Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.
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 completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.
This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.
