🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue. Historical Roots The idea 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 future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.