Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Historical Roots
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.
