Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
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The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.
The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.
Historical Roots
The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
