đź”— Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has voted to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by 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 promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued. The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's sitting board members and installed loyalists in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to name Trump the chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the aging venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. More details will be published soon.