🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is likely to prove deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.