🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue. Inception The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.