🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue. Original Concept The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.