Trump Ally Richard Grenell to Step Down as Kennedy Center President

Richard Grenell , an ally of President Donald Trump who oversaw far reaching changes at the Kennedy Center that prompted many artists to abandon the iconic performing arts venue, will step down as the institution’s president. Trump announced the change in a social media post on Friday after it was first reported by Axios . The president said Matt Floca , who manages the Kennedy Center’s facilities operations, will succeed Grenell.

The moves are expected to be finalized at a board meeting scheduled for Monday at the White House, according to a person familiar with the matter who requested anonymity to discuss plans that are not yet public. Related New Levels Strike Global Partnership With Virgin Music Group, Signs Hooligan Hefs & More Lars Brandle Grenell’s departure comes as the Kennedy Center prepares to close this summer for a two-year renovation.

“Ric Grenell has done an excellent job in helping to coordinate various elements of the Center during the transition period, and I want to thank him for the outstanding work he has done,” Trump said online. “THE TRUMP KENNEDY...