Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement.

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The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."

"This will 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 expected to be extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction 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 allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue.

Original Concept

The vision for a Washington-based 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.