Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement.

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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new 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, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted.

The intended name change is expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.

Context of the Venue

Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue.

Inception

The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.

Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.