🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This is destined 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 intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue. Historical Roots The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. More details will be provided shortly.