🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job 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 prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue. Original Concept The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.