🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement. 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 approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This will 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 expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.