Story perspectives
Trump Reshapes Kennedy Center, Sparks Backlash and Profit Drop
10/1/2025
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Story summary
- The Kennedy Center overhauled leadership after President Trump dismissed 18 board members and Deborah Rutter.
- Trump named his staff to the board and appointed Richard Grenell as president to remove 'wokeness'.
- The changes drew backlash from performers, including the Hamilton cast, and reduced profits by 36%.
- Trump signed an executive order targeting the Smithsonian to remove 'anti-American ideology,' triggering reviews.
