Chicago – August 13, 2025
President Donald Trump visited the Kennedy Center on Wednesday to announce the next recipients of its prestigious awards and reveal that he would personally host the awards show in December.
During his visit to the famous performing arts center, Trump said he was taking charge of its operations. Earlier this year, he took control of the Kennedy Center’s board and promised to make big changes to the center and its programs.
“We ended the woke political programming, and we’re restoring the Kennedy Center as the best place for performing arts in the world,” Trump stated. “We have amazing plans.”
Trump, who said he played a big part in choosing the next honorees, announced that the awards would go to singer George Strait, actors Michael Crawford and Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, and the rock band KISS.
While Trump insisted he didn’t push to be part of the award ceremonies, he seemed excited about hosting the show, recalling his time as the host of the TV show “The Apprentice.” He said he thought the show would be a big success.
The visit marked Trump’s third appearance at the Kennedy Center since returning to the White House, showing his personal interest in the center’s activities.
In July, Trump pushed for $250 million in funding for the Kennedy Center’s renovations as part of a tax and spending bill. He said the center needed repairs when he took over and promised an extensive overhaul.
In addition to taking control of the Kennedy Center, Trump has also pressured DC’s museums and historic sites to present American history in a more positive light. He criticized what he called a “revisionist movement” that he said aimed to erase the accomplishments of the United States. Recently, the White House ordered a review of Smithsonian museums and exhibits to make sure they fit with this goal.
