🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue. Inception The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.