🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic 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 stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their place. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue. Inception The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.