🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Venue Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue. Historical Roots The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.