🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on social media that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "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 reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its founding and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Venue Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and named allies in their place. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the historic venue. Original Concept The idea for a federal performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was named in his honor. This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.