🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This is destined to 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 likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue. Original Concept The vision 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. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.