WASHINGTON — On Monday, President Donald Trump visited the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where he conducted a tour and presided over a board of directors meeting. This visit marks his first appearance at the esteemed arts center since initiating a transformation at the beginning of his second term. Recently, Trump dismissed the previous board members of the Kennedy Center, citing on social media that they did not align with his vision for a flourishing era in arts and culture. Loyal supporters were appointed as replacements, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Usha Vance, the spouse of Vice President JD Vance, with Trump assuming the role of chairman.
Allies of the Republican president have voiced concerns that the Kennedy Center had veered towards a liberal and “woke” inclination in its programming. On Monday, before the board meeting, Trump criticized the center’s state of “tremendous disrepair.” He remarked on its significance to Washington, D.C., and the nation. Furthermore, Trump disparaged the recent expansion known as “The Reach,” which includes studios, rehearsal spaces, and meeting rooms, suggesting that he would shut them down due to their lack of windows.
Trump also unveiled plans to significantly enhance the Kennedy Center along with its forthcoming artistic offerings. “We are going to have some really good shows,” he proclaimed, adding, “The thing that does well are Broadway hits.”
Due to opposition toward Trump’s leadership, various artists and shows, including the Broadway hit “Hamilton,” have withdrawn from performances at the Kennedy Center. In response, Trump stated, “I was never a big fan, I never liked ‘Hamilton’ very much.”
Established along the Potomac River in 1971, the Kennedy Center has historically received support from both political parties. However, Trump’s interactions with it have been complicated since his initial presidential term, as he refrained from attending the annual honors ceremony each year.
