Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.

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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name 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 decision was unanimous, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 continued.

The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.

Context of the Venue

Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.

Inception

The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.

This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.