🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the prestigious 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 tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added. The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Soon 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 elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue. Historical Roots The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.