The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is currently facing scrutiny due to allegations of cronyism, financial mismanagement, and corruption. These concerns have emerged following Donald Trump's appointment of Richard Grenell as president of the center. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, an ex officio member of the Kennedy Center board, has raised alarms about the center's operations, suggesting it is being utilized as a 'slush fund' for associates of Trump.

In December 2025, the Kennedy Center board voted to rename the institution to include Trump's name, a decision that has drawn criticism from the family of John F. Kennedy, who stated that such a change necessitates congressional approval. The investigation led by Whitehouse has indicated that the center may be offering preferential treatment and financial advantages to organizations affiliated with the Trump administration. For example, FIFA was granted complimentary use of the Kennedy Center for a significant event, which Whitehouse estimates could lead to losses exceeding $5 million for the center. Grenell has defended this arrangement by asserting that FIFA provided considerable financial support for the event, although Whitehouse has questioned the validity of this claim due to a lack of supporting documentation.

Furthermore, the investigation has revealed contracts awarded to individuals connected to Grenell, raising additional concerns regarding the appropriateness of these financial decisions. Reports indicate that the Kennedy Center is operating over budget amid declining ticket sales, which Whitehouse attributes to a shift in programming that may not resonate with a wider audience.

The ongoing investigation seeks to clarify the extent of these issues, with Whitehouse asserting that it is inappropriate for a new administration to exploit public institutions for personal or political gain. The situation at the Kennedy Center highlights broader concerns about the potential for institutional capture and the implications of political influence on cultural institutions. In addition to these issues, the proposed renaming has sparked significant public and artistic backlash, with several high-profile artists canceling performances in protest. A federal lawsuit has also been filed, arguing that the renaming requires congressional approval. A parody website has been created to critique the changes, reflecting the growing discontent surrounding the center's direction.