🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per Administration Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their place. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue. Original Concept The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided shortly.