🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the tremendous efforts 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt added. The intended name change is likely to prove extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its construction and christening 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 installed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue. Inception The idea for a national performing arts center was first proposed 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. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.