đź”— Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is shaping up as deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and appointed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board then voted to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and associated costs at the historic venue. Inception The concept for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory. Further details are emerging. Further context will be provided shortly.