In a decisive move, President Donald Trump announced on Friday his immediate dismissal of several Kennedy Center board members, including the chairman, and declared his intention to assume the role himself.
This announcement was made public via Truth Social, where Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the current chair, David Rubenstein, stating they "do not share [the same] Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture."
As reported by Fox News, Trump assured that a new board would soon be unveiled, with himself as the "amazing" new chairman. His post criticized the Kennedy Center for hosting events such as the Dancing Queens Drag Brunch, which took place in October at the Roof Terrace Restaurant. The event showcased Washington, D.C.'s "most fabulous drag performers," including 2024 Capital Pride Honoree, Tula, and others representing the diversity of the city's queer community. Tickets for the event were priced at nearly $100, offering attendees bottomless mimosas with their reservations.
Trump's announcement led to a surge in traffic on the Kennedy Center's website, causing access limitations and forcing hundreds of visitors into an online waiting room. In his post, Trump emphasized the importance of the Kennedy Center as "an American jewel," insisting it should highlight the nation's "brightest stars" on its stage. He declared, "At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN," and assured supporters that "THE BEST IS YET TO COME!"
As of Friday night, the specific board members affected by this decision remain unidentified. The President's actions underscore his commitment to reshaping the cultural landscape in line with conservative values, aiming to steer the Kennedy Center away from events he deems inappropriate for the nation's youth.
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