John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement.

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

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 added.

The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Recent History of the Center

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.

Historical Roots

The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.

This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.