Kennedy Center Board Backs Trump's 2-Year Shutdown

Members also confirm Matt Floca as new CEO

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:24am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kennedy Center's board of directors voted on Monday to shut down operations for two years after this summer's Fourth of July celebrations. The board also voted to install Matt Floca as CEO and executive director, replacing Trump ally Richard Grenell. Trump praised Grenell on Monday, saying he had been a longtime friend, and wished Floca "good luck with everything."

Why it matters

The Kennedy Center is one of the most prominent performing arts venues in the United States, and its closure for two years will have a significant impact on the arts and culture scene in Washington, D.C. and beyond. The decision to install a new CEO also signals a shift in the leadership and direction of the institution.

The details

The Kennedy Center said the shutdown vote was unanimous, though Rep. Joyce Beatty, a Democrat and ex officio member of the board, didn't cast a vote. Over the weekend, a federal judge ruled she was entitled to participate in the meeting but didn't require that the board allow her to vote. Trump hosted the board meeting at the White House, a reminder of the control he has exerted over the Kennedy Center during his second term.

  • The Kennedy Center's board of directors voted on Monday to shut down operations for two years after this summer's Fourth of July celebrations.
  • The board also voted to install Matt Floca as CEO and executive director, replacing Trump ally Richard Grenell.

The players

Kennedy Center

One of the most prominent performing arts venues in the United States.

Matt Floca

The new CEO and executive director of the Kennedy Center, replacing Trump ally Richard Grenell.

Richard Grenell

The former CEO and executive director of the Kennedy Center, who oversaw far-reaching changes at the venue that prompted an outcry from many artists and exacerbated the operation's financial challenges.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who has exerted control over the Kennedy Center during his second term.

Rep. Joyce Beatty

A Democratic ex officio member of the Kennedy Center's board of directors, who sued to prevent the Trump administration from excluding her from Monday's meeting.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You have to close it,”

— Donald Trump (The Guardian)

“We're going to ensure it remains the finest performing arts facility of its kind anywhere in the world,”

— Donald Trump (AP)

“good luck with everything.”

— Donald Trump (AP)

The takeaway

The Kennedy Center's two-year shutdown and leadership change under the Trump administration signals a significant shift in the direction and priorities of one of the country's most prominent performing arts venues, with potential long-term implications for the arts and culture scene in Washington, D.C. and beyond.