🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees 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 approval was consensus, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the aging venue. Inception The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.