How Trump turned on the Kennedy Center and brought it to its knees

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center has led to significant turmoil, including legal battles, protests, staff layoffs, and declining fundraising and programming, with many artists and donors distancing themselves from the institution.
• Despite initial speculation that Trump might relinquish control after his name was removed from the building, he remains chairman and continues to push for his name to be re-affixed, linking it to fundraising efforts.
• A lawsuit by Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty resulted in a court order to remove Trump’s name and prevent the center’s shutdown, but Trump has threatened demolition and requested a two-year closure for renovations due to the building’s deteriorating condition.
• The Kennedy Center’s financial challenges are compounded by reduced ticket sales and canceled performances since Trump’s involvement, with insiders saying it could take years to restore Broadway shows and donor support even if the center reopens.
• Trump’s control of the Kennedy Center is part of a broader effort to reshape Washington, D.C.’s cultural institutions, contrasting with his earlier administration’s approach and reflecting his campaign focus on combating what he calls “wokeism.”