🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is likely to prove deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory. This report is being updated. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.