Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.

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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.

The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Recent History of the Center

Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.

Historical Roots

The concept 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 planned venue was dedicated to his memory.

Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.