President Donald Trump has dismissed multiple members of the Kennedy Center’s Board of Trustees, including its chairman, and has placed himself in charge. He is making it clear that he wants to eliminate what he sees as progressive influence over the institution.
Trump revealed his decision on Truth Social, stating, “At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture. We will soon announce a new Board, with an amazing Chairman, DONALD J. TRUMP!”
The trustees being replaced reportedly include Karine Jean-Pierre, Mike Donilon, and Chris Korge, all of whom were appointed by former President Joe Biden. Chairman David Rubenstein has been in his role for more than a decade, but it remains uncertain if Trump has the authority to remove him.
Trump’s conflict with the Kennedy Center dates back to his first term, when he refused to participate in its events. Now, instead of ignoring the institution, he is stepping in to take control.
One of the main reasons for Trump’s decision is the Kennedy Center’s support of drag performances, which he argues were promoted to children. “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP,” he wrote.
In addition to his plans for the Kennedy Center, Trump has committed to reshaping the entertainment industry, previously naming Jon Voight, Mel Gibson, and Sylvester Stallone as Special Ambassadors to Hollywood.
“The Kennedy Center is an American Jewel,” he said. “For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!”
