Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement.

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The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its 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, citing "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 success and grandeur," Leavitt noted.

The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Context of the Institution

Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the aging 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 future venue was named in his honor.

Further details are emerging. More details will be provided shortly.