🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue. Inception The idea 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. This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.