John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.

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The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added.

The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.

Context of the Institution

Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.

Historical Roots

The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.

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