Trump appoints himself chairman of Kennedy Center board
SUMMARY
President Donald Trump announced he has fired the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees and appointed himself as chairman, promising to revitalize the institution. In a Truth Social post, Trump criticized past programming, including drag shows, as signs of its decline and pledged a return to what he described as a "Golden Age in Arts and Culture." The move replaces philanthropist David Rubenstein, who had chaired the board for 14 years. Rubenstein previously planned to step down in 2026. Trump said the new board would showcase America’s "brightest stars." Trump’s relationship with the Kennedy Center was strained during his first term, culminating in his decision to skip the Kennedy Center Honors Gala, breaking presidential tradition. This time, sources suggest a more assertive approach from the president, who aims to ensure the institution aligns with his cultural vision. Trump’s arts agenda includes a "Garden of American Heroes" and preparations for the nation's 250th anniversary.
