🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job 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 success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The proposed move is shaping up as 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 Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.