🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue. Original Concept The vision for a national performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.