🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue. Original Concept The concept 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.