John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement.

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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."

"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.

The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Recent History of the Venue

Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue.

Inception

The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor.

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