🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue. Original Concept The vision 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. This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.