🔗 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 leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly 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 Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue. Inception The vision for a federal performing arts center originated 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 report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.