🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue. Historical Roots The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor. This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.