Richard Grenell Steps Down as Kennedy Center President, Matt Floca to Grab Over
WASHINGTON (March 14, 2026) — Richard Grenell, an ally of former President Donald Trump who oversaw significant changes at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, will step down as the institution’s president. The announcement was made by Trump on Friday, with Matt Floca, the center’s current vice president of facilities operations, set to replace him as CEO and executive director, pending approval from the Kennedy Center’s board of directors [CBS News].
A Period of Transition and Renovation
Grenell’s departure comes after a period of considerable upheaval at the Kennedy Center. Trump had previously sought to reshape the center, adding his name to the building and appointing allies to the board [CBS News]. The center is slated to close for approximately two years starting this summer for renovations, a project Trump estimates will cost around $200 million [CBS News], though Congress previously approved $250 million for the renovations [CBS News].
Controversial Tenure
Grenell’s tenure, which began in February 2025, was marked by controversy, including artist defections and performance cancellations [AP News]. Notable artists who distanced themselves from the center included Shonda Rhimes and Renée Fleming [CNN]. The Washington National Opera also announced its departure in early January [CBS News]. Grenell often responded to criticism with combative statements and limited press access to news organizations he considered unfavorable [CNN].
Trump’s Vision for the “Trump Kennedy Center”
Trump expressed his satisfaction with Grenell’s work during the transition period and stated his belief that the renovated Kennedy Center, which he has renamed the “Trump Kennedy Center,” will develop into “the finest facility of its kind anywhere in the World!” [CBS News]. He released renderings of the planned renovations on Friday [CBS News].
Floca’s Role
Matt Floca, currently the center’s vice president of facilities and operations, will assume the role of CEO and executive director, subject to board approval [CBS News]. He has been instrumental in the center’s progress, according to Trump [CBS News].