🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by 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 will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added. The proposed move is likely to prove deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic venue. Historical Roots The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.