Michael Wolff Explains Trump’s Impact on Kennedy Center Destruction
Biographer Michael Wolff recently discussed President Donald Trump’s controversial plans regarding the famed Kennedy Center. Wolff revealed some shocking insights into Trump’s approach to remaking the cultural landmark, and the attempts by his advisers to mitigate his more outrageous ideas.
Trump’s Ambitious Plans for the Kennedy Center
During his presidency, Donald Trump, 79, proposed significant changes to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Wolff indicated that Trump aimed to rename the institution without congressional approval, calling it “The Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.” This name change was part of a larger strategy to reshape the center in a manner more reflective of his personal brand.
The Attempted Renaming
Wolff recounted a particular moment where Trump suggested the Kennedy Center should simply be called the “Trump Center.” He felt this was justified due to his own past assassination attempts. According to Wolff, Trump questioned the relevance of Kennedy’s legacy by asking, “Why does this have to be Kennedy? That was such a long time ago.”
- Trump almost faced assassination in 2024.
- The center was initially renamed after John F. Kennedy shortly after his assassination in 1963.
Despite the absurdity of Trump’s request, his inner circle felt compelled to soften his approach rather than dismiss it outright. They proposed calling it the “Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Center” to appease him while maintaining some connection to Kennedy’s legacy.
Backlash from the Public and the Kennedy Family
The proposed renaming sparked immediate outrage among artists, political figures, and members of the Kennedy family. Maria Shriver, niece of John F. Kennedy, expressed her disapproval on social media, asserting that adding Trump’s name to the center would diminish its honor.
In a historical context, Jackie Kennedy had previously voiced concerns about naming the center after her husband. In a 1964 letter, she articulated fears that it could fall into political patronage, which, according to Wolff, may have become a reality under Trump’s influence.
The Renovation Plans
On December 18, Trump’s board voted to proceed with renovations, which he claimed would cost around $200 million. Trump characterized the Kennedy Center as “tired, broken, and dilapidated.” He announced plans to close the venue for approximately two years, emphasizing renovations without completely demolishing the existing structure.
- Renovation budget: $200 million.
- Closure duration: two years.
Wolff concluded that the Kennedy Center had maintained its nonpartisan and cultural significance for decades, but recent actions could jeopardize that legacy.
For more insights into Trump’s presidency and his controversial decisions, listen to the “Inside Trump’s Head” podcast with Michael Wolff and Joanna Coles, available on various platforms.
