đź”— Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is shaping up as extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's existing board members and appointed supporters in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the murder of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. This is a developing story. Further context will be published soon.