🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed loyalists in their stead. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death 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 added as it becomes available.