🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue. Original Concept 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 future venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.