Donald Trump has taken full control of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. He removed its previous board of trustees in February 2025. These included chairman David Rubenstein. He then appointed himself as its chairperson. This decision marked a sharp departure from tradition and positioned Trump as the most dominant figure in the institution.
On 13 August 2025, Trump announced the honorees for the upcoming Kennedy Center Honors. The list included Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor, Michael Crawford, George Strait, and KISS. What surprised many was his declaration that he would personally host the ceremony, a role historically filled by prominent figures outside the Center’s governance.
Trump stated that he was “about 98 percent involved” in selecting the honorees. He also mentioned that several potential candidates were disregarded for being “too woke” and made it clear that his choices reflected both personal tastes and political sensibilities. His remarks underscored the extent to which his values now influence the Kennedy Center.
His anti-woke anecdote resonates with his political base. A band of right-leaning Trump supporters has often rallied against what they perceive as excessive political correctness in the arts. Trump is effectively redefining the awards as a platform that not only celebrates talent but also reinforces his broader ideological narrative by underscoring his cultural stance.
During his announcement, Trump made a self-referential quip, noting that he had long desired such an honor but never received one. He joked that by becoming chairman, he could eventually give himself the award. He added that perhaps next year, the Kennedy Center might honor Trump himself, blending humor with a pointed acknowledgment of his new authority.
Media outlets and political commentators quickly seized on the moment. While some treated the remarks as lighthearted, others viewed them as symbolic of a deeper shift in the mission and values of the Kennedy Center. Direct participation by Trump blurs the line between cultural stewardship and self-promotion. This raises concerns about political influence.
The Honors ceremony, scheduled for December 2025, is expected to be one of the most closely watched in recent history. Supporters of Trump hail his involvement as a revival of traditional American entertainment values. Opponents remain skeptical. His leadership could transform a historically nonpartisan celebration into a politically charged spectacle.