President Donald J. Trump has been elected chair of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The announcement was made on February 12, with Trump expressing his excitement on social media. “It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees. We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!” Trump stated. He takes over the position from David M. Rubenstein, who has served as chair for over a decade.
In a significant shake-up, Trump has dismissed all 18 Democratic appointees from the historically bipartisan, 36-member board, marking a notable departure from tradition. Trump emphasized his commitment to transforming the Kennedy Center, announcing that “THIS WILL STOP” concerning performances he objected to in the past. 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!”
In addition to the board changes, Trump has also appointed Richard Grenell, former ambassador to Germany, as the interim executive director following the dismissal of Kennedy Center president Deborah F. Rutler. In her farewell remarks, Rutler highlighted the importance of artistic expression as a vital part of democracy and cultural participation.
Further changes include the resignation of Ben Folds from his role as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra, a decision made in light of recent developments at the Kennedy Center. Folds expressed gratitude for his time at the center and the opportunity to nurture new audiences for symphonic music.
During his previous term, Trump notably did not attend the Kennedy Center Honors from 2017 to 2019, becoming the first sitting president to skip the ceremony in consecutive years. He has stated that he has never attended any Kennedy Center performances, claiming, “There was nothing I wanted to see.”
