🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Soon after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their place. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the aging venue. Inception The concept for a federal performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. This is a developing story. More details will be published soon.