🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue. Inception The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future 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.