🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement. 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 stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Center Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and installed loyalists in their positions. The freshly appointed board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue. Historical Roots The concept for a national 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 dedicated to his memory. This report is being updated. More details will be provided shortly.