Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement.

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The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."

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

The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Venue

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

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.

Original Concept

The concept 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.

This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.