Trump Appointed Chair of Kennedy Center, Rutter Ousted

On Wednesday, Donald Trump was unanimously elected chairman of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, following a vote by a newly appointed board of trustees comprised entirely of his loyalists. This move included the termination of longtime president Deborah Rutter, who announced her more immediate departure after more than a decade in the role. Trump expressed his excitement about the appointment on Truth Social, stating that he aims to make the Kennedy Center 'a very special and exciting place.' The changes have prompted resignations from prominent board members and artistic advisors, including Shonda Rhimes and musician Ben Folds, signaling dissent among the arts community regarding Trump's leadership. Trump's installation marks a significant shift in the cultural institution's direction, aligning with his right-wing, anti-woke agenda. This unprecedented takeover by a sitting president raises concerns about the future artistic integrity and independence of the Kennedy Center.