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U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Fox News host Laura Ingraham and Fox Business anchor Maria Bartiromo to the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This move comes after Trump fired the center’s president, replaced its board of trustees, and named himself chairman in February.
Trump announced the appointments on social media, calling it the "completion" of his selection. In another shake-up, former special envoy Richard Grenell will serve as the center’s interim executive director.
The Kennedy Center, home to the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera, is best known for its annual Kennedy Center Honors, which recognize artistic excellence. During his first term, Trump declined to attend the prestigious event, while former President Joe Biden was present at last year’s ceremony.
Following Trump's takeover, the hit musical Hamilton canceled its scheduled performances at the center earlier this week. His administration has been actively restructuring government institutions, with widespread firings and replacements aimed at reducing bureaucracy and appointing loyalists.
Trump’s leadership at the Kennedy Center marks a significant shift for the cultural institution, raising questions about its future direction and artistic programming.
