🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Center Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue. Original Concept The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.