đź”— Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This will 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 highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named supporters in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue. Inception The concept for a national 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 christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.