From The Conversation · E. Andrew Taylor · · 3m
Trump controls the Kennedy Center with few checks left
The president now chairs the board, Congress is silent, and federal agencies aren't pushing back on his plans for the living memorial to JFK.
In brief
The president now chairs the board, Congress is silent, and federal agencies aren't pushing back on his plans for the living memorial to JFK. Trump has consolidated control over the Kennedy Center by chairing its restructured board while most traditional oversight mechanisms have either aligned with him or stayed…
Trump hints at demolishing Kennedy Center
On September 16, 2026, a photo showed President Trump reviewing a poster reading "Kennedy Center DEMOLISH" aboard Air Force One, sparking protests and lawsuits about the fate of the performing arts venue.
Kennedy Center is a living memorial to JFK
For over 50 years, the Kennedy Center has hosted world-class symphonies, operas, dance and theater, plus education programs. It was established as a living memorial to former President John F. Kennedy.
Congress created the center and funds it
Congress established the Kennedy Center and controls its governance through the power of the purse, deciding on funding for construction, repairs, and operational budgets.
A board of trustees oversees operations
A board of trustees authorized by Congress advances the center's mission and secures most of its revenue. Operations are also subject to IRS review of nonprofit status and federal court oversight.
Trump now chairs the board
Trump has chaired the Kennedy Center's board of trustees and appointed most of its members since an unprecedented restructuring in February 2025 that ended its previously bipartisan makeup.
Congress approved funds but stayed silent
In 2025, the Republican-controlled Congress approved 257 million dollars for repairs and maintenance at the Kennedy Center but remained silent on oversight, including Trump's attempts to add his name to the building.
Judge found board derelict in duties
In May 2026, Judge Christopher Cooper ruled the board of trustees was derelict in discharging its responsibilities. The DC Preservation League has suggested removing trustees and appointing a receiver.
“derelict in discharging the full range of its responsibilities to the Center”
Federal agencies aren't checking Trump
The IRS, Justice Department, and Office of Management and Budget could critique the board's decisions, but they're all cooperating with the White House in a consolidation of executive power.
Courts are the only real check left
With Congress and trustees aligned with Trump, federal courts are the main constraint on his decisions. Rep. Joyce Beatty and preservationists have filed lawsuits, with Judge Cooper presiding over both cases.
Trump demolished White House East Wing
Trump demolished the White House East Wing in October 2025 without congressional approval or advance notice. Chief Justice John Roberts called his plan to build a ballroom there without authorization likely unlawful, yet construction continues.
Center's finances collapsed under Trump
Revenue from performances declined steeply after Trump took over the board in February 2025. Artists canceled engagements and stopped bookings, reversing the center's strong financial recovery from the pandemic.
The bottom line
Trump has consolidated control over the Kennedy Center by chairing its restructured board while most traditional oversight mechanisms have either aligned with him or stayed silent, leaving only the courts as a meaningful check on his decisions.
