Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Statement.

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The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."

"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted.

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

Background of the Venue

Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.

The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue.

Historical Roots

The vision for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor.

Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.