Trump Announces His Chairmanship at Kennedy Center Amid Board Changes

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he plans to assume the role of chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, effectively terminating multiple board members, including current Chairman David Rubenstein. Trump’s statement, posted on social media, emphasized his vision for a renewed focus on traditional arts and culture.

In a written post, Trump declared, “At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN,” and stated he would be replacing several board members who do not align with his objectives for what he termed a “Golden Age in Arts and Culture.” He promised to soon reveal a new board chaired by himself.

Trump’s comments also targeted the Kennedy Center’s programming decisions, condemning past events such as drag shows that he claimed were aimed at youth. He stated, “The Kennedy Center is an American Jewel, and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!” This proclamation raises questions about the future direction of the cultural staple.

According to a Kennedy Center spokesperson, the institution had not received any formal communication from the White House regarding board changes, although it was aware that some members received termination notices. The center released a statement highlighting that while there is no law preventing a new administration from replacing board members, this would mark a historic precedent in the center’s governance.

The Kennedy Center has historically maintained bipartisan support, with a board comprising individuals from various political affiliations. Past chairmen have included prominent figures endorsed by both Republican and Democratic administrations. Trump’s announcement marks a notable shift in this tradition, especially considering his strained relationship with the arts community during his first term, where performing artists often protested his policies.

In the current board, Biden’s press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and a host of other Democratic allies stand alongside Trump supporters such as musician Lee Greenwood. Trump’s approach and the handling of the Kennedy Center have intensified discussions about governmental influence on cultural institutions. The move comes as Trump’s administration seeks to set new political frameworks within established organizations.

Notably, President Dwight D. Eisenhower envisioned the Kennedy Center in the 1950s, with its groundbreaking taking place in 1964, followed by its public opening in 1971. Over the years, the center has showcased numerous distinguished performers, solidifying its role in American cultural life.

The Kennedy Center operates with a federal budget of approximately $45.73 million annually and is home to a variety of performances, including this weekend’s staging of the musical “Schmigadoon,” presented by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

As Trump prepares to reshape the board and possibly the artistic direction of the Kennedy Center, reactions from the public and existing board members are still evolving, amid heightened scrutiny of censorship and artistic freedom.