đŸ”— Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving 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 noted. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially 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 Institution Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue. Original Concept The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.