🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership 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. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the extraordinary job 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 grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue. Original Concept The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.