🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue. Inception The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began 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 report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.