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

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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.

The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Institution

Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue.

Inception

The vision 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.