🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue. Inception The idea for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination 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. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.