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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue.
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.
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Kim Ramirez
Kim Ramirez
Kim Ramirez