John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement.

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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.

The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Institution

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.

Historical Roots

The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated 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. Additional information will be published soon.