WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump celebrated American artistic achievement Saturday by hosting the 2025 Kennedy Center honorees at the White House. The honorees, including actor Sylvester Stallone, singers Gloria Gaynor and George Strait, the band Kiss, and actor-singer Michael Crawford, were recognized in an Oval Office ceremony.
This event marks a shift for President Trump, who in his first term did not engage with the Kennedy Center program. Since returning to office, he has taken steps to reshape the organization, including appointing new trustees who share his vision.
President Trump has expressed his commitment to ensuring the Kennedy Center reflects traditional American values and artistic excellence. He personally announced the honorees at the Kennedy Center, underscoring his direct involvement in the selection process. Previously, a non-partisan committee made these decisions.
Following the White House ceremony, President Trump attended the annual State Department dinner held in honor of the recipients. The Kennedy Center Honors program, featuring tribute performances, will be recorded on Sunday and broadcast later in December. President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump plan to attend the program, showing their support for the arts and the honorees.
President Trump also addressed rumors of hosting the show, clarifying his role and reaffirming his commitment to supporting this important cultural event.
