🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue. Inception The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.