🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt noted. The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue. Inception The concept for a federal 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. This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.