🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson 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 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The concept 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 planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.