The performing arts center was established as a "living memorial" to President John F. Kennedy, though House Republicans have now proposed using the institution to honor Melania as well

Republican members of the Appropriations Committee approved an amendment to a spending bill that would rename the venue after the first lady.

After U.S. House Republicans moved to rename the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after first lady Melania Trump on July 22, 2025, a rumor spread that Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President Kennedy, slammed the effort in an Instagram post.