🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Announcement. Image Source The board of trustees of the iconic performing arts venue has decided to change its 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, crediting "the unbelievable work 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 achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the national venue. Historical Roots The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.