President Trump brushed off the Kennedy Center’s latest liberal protest with characteristic confidence, attending a performance of Les Misérables alongside First Lady Melania without flinching. While left-wing actors attempted a boycott, Trump’s presence sent a clear message: the cultural elite no longer control America’s institutions.

Trump Dismisses Actor Boycott at Kennedy Center

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended a performance of “Les Misérables” at the Kennedy Center amid controversy, as some cast members reportedly boycotted due to his presence. When questioned about the actors’ protest, Trump responded firmly: “I couldn’t care less, honestly, I couldn’t. All I do is run the country well.”

The presidential appearance generated mixed reactions from the audience, with both boos and cheers heard as the Trumps arrived at the venue. The event raised $10 million and was also attended by Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance, highlighting its significance despite the controversy.

President Donald Trump responded to reports that some Les Misérables actors were boycotting a Kennedy Center event in protest of him. “I couldn’t care less … All I do is run the country well,” he said, touting record-setting economic numbers and rising wealth. pic.twitter.com/PTJB5GgZEq

— NTD News (@NTDNews) June 12, 2025

Trump’s Kennedy Center Transformation

In February, Trump took control of the Kennedy Center, replacing much of the board with loyalists and appointing himself chairman. His stated goal was eliminating what he considered “woke” programming at the prestigious venue, part of a broader cultural agenda.

The Kennedy Center has reportedly experienced a significant drop in subscription sales following Trump’s takeover and programming changes. Richard Grenell, the Trump-appointed president of the Kennedy Center, had previously criticized the potential boycott and suggested publicly identifying participating actors.

Reporter: “What is your message to artists who say President Trump staged a hostile takeover of the Kennedy Center?”

Vance: “It’s not a hostile takeover. He’s the President of the United States. It’s right for the president to have some role.” pic.twitter.com/cQcmO2KvV5

— TheBlaze (@theblaze) June 11, 2025

Protests and National Issues

The performance drew protesters, including drag queens opposing Trump’s cultural policies, who reportedly received applause from some audience members. Trump has criticized the previous Kennedy Center board for allowing drag shows, signaling his intent to reshape the institution’s cultural direction.

Trump has expressed his vision for the Kennedy Center, stating, “We want to bring it back better than ever.” The president has reportedly seen “Les Misérables” multiple times and joked about identifying with characters Jean Valjean or Inspector Javert, showing his connection to the classic production.

While cultural battles played out at the Kennedy Center, the Trump administration has been addressing nationwide anti-ICE protests, particularly in Los Angeles. The president deployed military forces to address unrest in Los Angeles, attributing the situation to “radical left lunatics” and asserting, “We are going to have law and order in our country.”

Additionally, Trump has announced plans for a $30 million military parade commemorating his 79th birthday and the US Army’s 250th anniversary. The celebration will feature military vehicles and personnel, further emphasizing the administration’s focus on traditional American values and military strength.

Sources:

• Thin-Skinned Trump Snaps Over Kennedy Center Snub

• Trump reacts to actors boycotting Kennedy Center attendance | News | Independent TV

• Trump unfazed by Kennedy Center actors who boycotted his ‘Les Misérables’ date night with Melania