🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is expected to be highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. More details will be added as it becomes available.