🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue. Original Concept The concept 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. Further context will be published soon.