🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This is destined 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 proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue. Historical Roots The idea for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.