🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "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 success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly 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. Recent History of the Venue Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue. Historical Roots The concept for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.