🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "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 grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue. Original Concept The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.