In a surprising and highly publicized move, President Donald Trump recently assumed the role of chair at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. His announcement to lead the Washington, D.C. venue personally has been met with both enthusiasm and controversy, sparking a renewed public conversation about the role of politics in the arts.

Shortly after stepping into his new position, President Trump revealed that Fox News hosts Laura Ingraham and Maria Bartiromo would be joining the Kennedy Center’s board. The announcement came via Trump’s social media account, where he declared: “We look forward to restoring the Center to greatness and ushering in America’s Golden Age. Together, we will Make the Arts Great Again!”

Trump’s involvement with the Kennedy Center includes sweeping changes. Several long-time board members were dismissed, and Richard Grenell—Trump’s former envoy for special missions—was temporarily appointed to oversee operations. Trump expressed optimism about the institution’s future, stating: “We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!”

However, the move has not come without resistance. Some performers and producers have distanced themselves from the venue. One notable reaction came from the creative team behind the acclaimed Broadway show Hamilton, who canceled their scheduled performances at the Kennedy Center. Lead producer Jeffrey Seller issued a statement, calling the venue a “sacred space” that should remain free from overt political influence.

Similarly, Whoopi Goldberg, well-known actress and co-host of The View, publicly stated she would no longer visit the Kennedy Center following the change in leadership.

This moment marks a shift in the cultural narrative surrounding the Kennedy Center, long known for celebrating diverse artistic expressions and traditions. For some, Trump’s appointments raise questions about the balance between leadership and political identity in public institutions. For others, it represents an effort to bring new energy to a historic venue.

Trump’s appointments extend beyond the arts. He has tapped several familiar media figures and contributors for roles in his administration. Civil rights attorney and political commentator Leo Terrell has been appointed senior counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. Harmeet Dhillon will serve as the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice.

“These individuals are passionate advocates for the American people,” Trump wrote in an announcement, highlighting their experience and dedication to national service.

Among other appointments:

• Former Fox & Friends Weekend co-host Pete Hegseth has been nominated for Secretary of Defense.

• Fox News contributor Sean Duffy has been named Secretary of Transportation.

• Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a physician and former TV commentator, has been selected as Surgeon General.

• Dr. Marty Makary, another television regular, is set to lead the Food and Drug Administration.

• Keith Kellogg, a former general and military analyst, will serve as Special Envoy to Ukraine and Russia.

Additionally, Tammy Bruce—political commentator, author, and longtime Fox News contributor—has been chosen as the next spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, alongside Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio. Trump praised Bruce’s transformation from liberal activist to outspoken conservative voice, calling her one of the strongest communicators of her generation.

Bruce responded to her appointment with a message of gratitude and resolve, writing on social media, “2025 is just the beginning. There will be ups and downs, and we will continue to fight for our future, but it will be the beginning of a glorious return of our country.”

While the recent changes have drawn mixed reactions from across the political and cultural spectrum, they undeniably signal a new chapter—both at the Kennedy Center and within other key institutions. Whether seen as revitalizing or polarizing, these decisions are shaping the national conversation around leadership, influence, and the intersection of media, government, and the arts.

As the curtain rises on this evolving storyline, all eyes remain on the Kennedy Center—its stage, its leadership, and its future.