President Donald Trump has named Richard Grenell as interim executive director of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, A2 CNN reports. The decision follows Trump's announcement that he will take on the role of chairman of the Kennedy Center's board, removing several current board members, including chairman David Rubenstein.
In a post on the social network Truth Social, Trump stated: "I am pleased to announce that Ric Grenell will serve as Interim Executive Director of the Kennedy Center. Ric shares my vision for a golden age of American arts and culture and will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Center. There will be no more drag queen shows or anti-American propaganda — only the best. Ric, welcome to show business!"
Grenell, a close Trump ally, previously served as U.S. ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence. Most recently, he was Trump's special envoy for special missions, including negotiating the release of six Americans detained in Venezuela.
The Kennedy Center, which receives state funding, is one of the leading arts institutions in the United States and has long enjoyed bipartisan support. Recent changes in its leadership have sparked discussions about the potential politicization of cultural institutions.
Before the elections in Kosovo, Grenell repeatedly attacked Prime Minister Albin Kurti, calling him untrustworthy. After this statement, he engaged in a remote debate with Kurti. (A2 Televizion)
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