Key Takeaways:

• Trump announced he will fire multiple members of the Kennedy Center board and take over as chairman.
• The decision follows criticism from Trump regarding the center’s programming, specifically drag shows.
• The Kennedy Center has stated it received no official communication from the White House about the changes.

In a bold move that has sent ripples through the arts community, President Donald Trump declared on Friday that he is appointing himself as chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, while simultaneously dismissing several members of the board of trustees who he claims do not align with his vision for the institution. Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump proclaimed, “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.” He signaled plans for a redefined artistic direction, prominently stating, “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP. 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!”

The current chairman, David Rubenstein, a billionaire philanthropist and significant political player, had previously announced plans to remain in his role until September 2026. However, after Trump’s announcement of his new strategy, it became apparent Rubenstein’s position is now in jeopardy alongside other board members. As reported by AP News, the Kennedy Center's official statement noted, “We have received no official communications from the White House regarding changes to our board of trustees,” but acknowledged being aware of members receiving termination notices.

Trump’s call for significant change at the Kennedy Center reflects a broader trend seen since he began his second term, as he has been looking to assert more control over institutions that he feels are not aligned with his vision. In doing so, Trump aims to reshape the cultural landscape, having previously taken a firm stance against performances he deems inappropriate. The Kennedy Center, founded as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, has hosted renowned performances over the decades and is a cornerstone in Washington D.C.'s cultural scene.

Following the announcement, the Kennedy Center’s website was reported to have experienced high traffic, suggesting a surge in public interest in the situation. BBC reported that many within the arts community view this latest move as a potentially dangerous precedent, raising concerns over creative freedom and censorship.

Critics of Trump’s latest decision have noted that this may fundamentally alter the longstanding structure and bipartisan support of the Kennedy Center. As the arts figurehead navigates his new leadership, many will be watching closely to see how these changes impact programming and the future of the center.

For further details on this developing story, visit The New York Times.