Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement.
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The board of trustees of the iconic 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 stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Venue
Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.
