🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue. Inception The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.