Trump Seeks Direct Control of Kennedy Center, Names Ally as Interim Leader
In an unprecedented move, President Trump aims to reshape the Kennedy Center’s leadership and programming, raising concerns over political influence in the arts.
- President Trump has dismissed several Kennedy Center board members and announced plans to install himself as chairman of the board, a departure from longstanding traditions.
- Richard Grenell, a Trump ally and former acting director of national intelligence, has been named as interim executive director, though the role’s exact responsibilities remain unclear.
- Trump has criticized past Kennedy Center programming, particularly drag shows, and vowed to align the institution with his vision of 'traditional American culture.'
- Arts leaders and critics express alarm over the potential politicization of the Kennedy Center, with some fearing broader implications for federally funded cultural institutions and nonprofit organizations.
- Legal experts question the president’s authority to unilaterally reshape the Kennedy Center’s governance, with calls for potential legal challenges from removed board members.
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