John F. Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House 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, 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 extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."

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

The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Institution

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.

Original Concept

The idea for a federal 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

This is a developing story. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.