Exclusive: Ric Grenell departing as Kennedy Center head
Briefly

Exclusive: Ric Grenell departing as Kennedy Center head
"Trump, who relishes his roots as a New York real estate developer, has been calling Floca to hash out possible changes to the center, including paint color, seating and the addition of marble. Grenell took the helm of the historic campus in February 2025 as part of a Trump-driven shake-up."
"Under Grenell's tenure, the organization has undergone a significant overhaul, including the installation of a Trump-aligned board. Kennedy Center officials say that after having implementing cost-cutting measures - including large-scale layoffs - they're no longer paying staff with debt reserves."
"Trump announced last month that the venue will close in July for two years for 'Construction, Revitalization, and Complete Rebuilding.' He promised a 'new and spectacular Entertainment Complex,' with a 'Grand Reopening that will rival and surpass anything that has taken place with respect to such a Facility before.'"
Ric Grenell is transitioning from president to unpaid consultant at the Kennedy Center, with the change announced at a White House board meeting. Trump has taken personal interest in the center's operations, consulting with new leadership on aesthetic changes including paint, seating, and marble additions. Grenell led a significant organizational overhaul since February 2025, installing a Trump-aligned board and implementing cost-cutting measures including layoffs. The center will close in July for a two-year complete renovation and rebuilding project. Trump has increased his involvement with the venue, hosting annual honors and major events there.
Read at Axios
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