🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "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 added. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and installed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the national venue. Historical Roots The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.