🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set 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 decided to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is shaping up as highly controversial, especially 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 Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed allies in their positions. The newly constituted board later moved to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for extensive repairs and associated costs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The vision for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the murder 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. More details will be added as it becomes available.