Trump Announces Ric Grenell’s Departure as Kennedy Center President

Donald Trump announced the departure of Ric Grenell as president of the Kennedy Center, with Matt Floca, the center’s vice president of facilities operations, set to grab over. The move comes after a period of significant change and controversy at the iconic performing arts venue.

A Turbulent Tenure

Grenell, a longtime Republican foreign policy advisor, was appointed to the position in early February 2025 , following Trump’s removal of several board members and his own appointment as chair. His tenure was marked by efforts to overhaul the center, including adding Trump’s name to the building’s facade and planning a two-year renovation .

Changes and Controversy

These changes prompted numerous artists to cancel performances in protest. Trump’s handpicked board voted in December to rename the venue, a decision that further fueled criticism . Grenell frequently defended the changes on social media, often engaging in confrontations with critics.

Floca to Lead During Renovation

Trump announced Grenell’s replacement on social media, thanking him for his “outstanding operate.” Matt Floca was photographed in December overseeing the addition of Trump’s name to the center . The Kennedy Center is scheduled to close this summer for a two-year renovation, which Trump has described as creating a “new, highly improved, TRUMP KENNEDY CENTER!” .

Grenell’s Background

Prior to his role at the Kennedy Center, Grenell served as U.S. Ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence during Trump’s first term. He had no prior arts experience .

A Shift in Strategy

According to one person with close knowledge of Kennedy Center programming, Grenell’s departure “takes the politics out—not having a figurehead for the Kennedy Center who’s mouthing off all the time on socials.” With the upcoming closure, there is expected to be less public messaging from the center .