🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue. Original Concept 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.