Trump Appoints Himself as Kennedy Center Chairman, Vows Major Changes

US President Donald Trump said Friday that he will take on the position of chairman at the Kennedy Center, Washington’s preeminent cultural institution. The move represents a major change in the venue’s leadership and artistic direction.

Trump’s Vision for the Kennedy Center

Trump announced his board appointment on his social media site, where he defined many of his intentions to reshape the board and programming at the Kennedy Center. He criticized some past artistic decisions, stating that the entertainment at the center was not something he enjoyed.

“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!” he wrote on Truth Social.

Crackdown on Programming

Trump also criticized certain performances, promising to end certain shows. “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP. The Kennedy Center is an American Jewe and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!” he declared.

While Trump did not specify which show he was referring to, reports indicate that the venue hosted concerts by a band called Bertha, whose musicians dressed in drag during a December performance.

A Shift in Leadership

Indeed, Trump wants change. His overhaul includes removing the current chairman, David Rubenstein, a billionaire philanthropist who had close ties to former Democratic presidents. Rubenstein has been an adviser to former President Jimmy Carter and had closely related connections to former President Joe Biden, whose representation at the gala of the Center Honors was not uncommon.

Home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Kennedy Center hosts diverse theatre, opera, comedy, and other kinds of cultural production. Under the tutelage of Trump, an important change of character is awaiting this institution along the lines of conservative American arts and culture.

So with sweeping change at hand, an appointment from the Trump fold gives a whole new direction for one of America’s most recognizable venues in its national culture.