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

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The board of trustees 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.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."

"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued.

The proposed move is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.

Recent History of the Venue

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue.

Historical Roots

The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder 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 report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.