🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, 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 reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The proposed move is expected to be deeply divisive, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Institution Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and other financial needs at the national venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.