🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing 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 added. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the national venue. Original Concept The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. More details will be added as it becomes available.