President Donald Trump has unveiled the stars he’ll feted at the Kennedy Center’s annual gala, a lineup that reflects his populist appeal and sets up a cultural war. The honorees include Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, George Strait, and KISS.
Trump is setting a trap for critics by choosing popular artists who defy traditional notions of “high” culture. He claims to have scrubbed the list of “wokesters,” but critics see it as a move to dominate and dictate American cultural life.
The president’s selection process has been politicized, with Trump saying he turned down some nominees due to their progressive views. This mirrors his larger efforts to control the media, universities, and institutions, fueling fears of authoritarianism.
Trump’s base sees his actions as a victory against liberal elites’ alleged ideological takeover of American life. The honorees mirror aspects of Trump’s own character and experience, such as Stallone’s tough-guy persona and KISS’s over-the-top stagecraft.
The move has sparked concerns about Trump’s unchecked power and his impact on the arts and culture. Critics warn that this is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of cultural warfare. As the administration continues to shape exhibitions at the Smithsonian and control university curricula, the stakes are high for American free speech and creative expression.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/14/politics/trump-kennedy-center-strait-stallone-gaynor-kiss-analysis