Trump Overhauls Kennedy Center Board

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been appointed chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts following a complete overhaul of its board, now composed entirely of his appointees. The board unanimously elected Trump, leading to the firing of the center's longtime president, Deborah F. Rutter, and the appointment of Richard Grenell as interim executive director. Trump's vision for the Kennedy Center includes eliminating 'woke' programming such as drag shows, promoting instead what he describes as a 'Golden Age in Arts and Culture.' The changes prompted resignations from high-profile figures affiliated with the center, including Shonda Rhimes, Ben Folds, and Renée Fleming. The shift marks a significant transformation from the previously bipartisan board as Trump seeks to align the center with his cultural values. The Kennedy Center board's reconstitution and leadership changes have sparked controversy and debate about the future direction of the institution.