Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement.

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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.

The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy.

Background of the Institution

Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue.

Historical Roots

The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor.

This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.