🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.