🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The concept 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 named in his honor. This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.