🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The planned renaming is likely to prove extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover extensive repairs and operational expenses at the historic 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 then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This is a developing story. More details will be published soon.