🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The proposed move is expected to be extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Center Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the aging venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.