Trump Visits Kennedy Center as New Chair, Announces Plans to Overhaul Venue

Trump earlier criticized the venue for hosting drag shows and other programs he deemed counter to traditional American values.

President Donald Trump stands in the presidential box as he tours the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, on March 17, 2025. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump visited the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on March 17 to attend a board meeting as the new chair, a month after making a sweeping leadership shakeup at the Washington-based arts institution.

“I’m very disappointed,” Trump told reporters after touring the Kennedy Center.