đź”— Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed 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, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Center Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and installed loyalists in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and other financial needs at the aging venue. Historical Roots The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. More details will be added as it becomes available.