🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided 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 approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue. Original Concept The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.