🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed 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 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Center Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the aging venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.