Investigation Uncovers Mismanagement and Cronyism at the Kennedy Center Following Trump Takeover
Following the ousting of Biden-appointed board members, former President Trump took control of the Kennedy Center, installing Richard Grenell as president and signaling a significant shift in the institution's leadership and direction.
In November 2025, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse initiated a formal investigation by the EPW Committee into allegations of cronyism, financial mismanagement, and corruption at the Kennedy Center, describing it as a secular temple to the arts. Investigators have alleged that the center operates as a slush fund and private club for Trump allies, with millions of dollars in losses and a deviation from its statutory mission.
Whitehouse demanded detailed documentation from Grenell to clarify these concerns. Grenell responded by accusing the senator of partisan attacks and attributing the financial disarray to the previous leadership.
Among disputed financial matters, the Kennedy Center permitted FIFA to use its campus from 24 November to 12 December for the World Cup draw, which reportedly caused an estimated loss of $5,038,444. Grenell and others disputed the financial accounting, while Whitehouse has requested thorough documentation.
Contractual agreements and discounts linked to conservative groups and allies came under scrutiny. NewsNation received a $19,820 discount; the American Conservative Union Foundation was granted a $21,982.60 discount for a CPAC event, alongside notes of waived costs authorized by the Office of the President.
Between April and May 2025, contracts were awarded to associates of Grenell and allied individuals, including a $15,000-per-month contract for work on a donor-funded exhibit and a $10,833.33-per-month contract to Jeff Halperin, husband of Kari Lake, for social media services. Additional expenses from April to July 2025 totaled $27,185 for Watergate Hotel stays and $10,773.19 for private meals and alcohol, with invoicing involving figures tied to Grenell’s network.
Senator Whitehouse highlighted that the center's budget strain and declining ticket sales reflect poorly on Washington under the new leadership, criticizing the narrowing of programming towards a MAGA orientation. This contrasts sharply with previous administrations' broader use of public funds and programming diversity at the Kennedy Center.
