Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement.

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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.

The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.

Recent History of the Center

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue.

Original Concept

The vision for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory.

This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.