🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Moves for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The board of trustees 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. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's vote was unified, attributing it to "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The proposed move is shaping up as deeply divisive, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an beloved institution since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and installed supporters in their stead. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue. Inception The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.