π Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the tremendous efforts 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and named loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue. Original Concept The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. Additional information will be published soon.