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The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building."

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

The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.

Context of the Center

Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman.

The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue.

Original Concept

The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began 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. More details will be added as it becomes available.