Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.

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

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."

"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.

The proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Center

Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue.

Inception

The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.

This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.