The Kennedy Center’s board of directors voted on Monday to shut down operations for two years following this summer’s July 4 celebrations.
The board also voted to install Matt Floca as CEO and executive director, replacing Trump ally Richard Grenell, who oversaw far-reaching changes at the venue that prompted an outcry from many artists and exacerbated the operation’s financial challenges.
The president said in an announcement earlier on Monday that the building is structurally sound and has “good bones,” but said its theaters, heating and air conditioning systems, marble and exterior steel columns need renovation.
“It’s the Trump Kennedy Center. Over the past year we’ve made incredible strides to restore the true purpose and prestige of this revered institution, and together we’re going to ensure it remains the finest performing arts facility,” said Trump.
Work is expected to begin on July 6, shortly after the nation’s 250th birthday.
Kennedy Center board vote
The backstory:
The meeting comes as both the proposed closure and the effort to rename the Kennedy Center face legal challenges from Rep. Joyce Beatty, an Ohio legislator and Kennedy Center board member.
FILE-A general view of the facade of The Trump Kennedy Center on January 17, 2026, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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Beatty contends that she was muted during a previous vote on the renaming and stated both moves require congressional approval because the center was established as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy.
Most current board members were appointed by President Donald Trump, though Beatty serves based on her position in Congress. It remains unclear whether the judge will act before Monday’s vote.
According to the New York Times, after an emergency hearing on March 13, Judge Christopher R. Cooperin ruled on March 15 that the board could not reveal some details about the upcoming meeting or prevent Beatty from appearing to voice her opposition.
The Source: Information for this story was provided by FOX 5 DC reporting and The New York Times. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.
