🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts 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. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's decision was unanimous, attributing it to "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The planned renaming is expected to be highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their stead. The reconstituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue. Inception The vision 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 dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.