🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by 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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.