Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, faced loud boos at the Kennedy Center on Thursday night. As they entered their balcony seats, the audience’s reaction grew louder. A viral video on X (formerly Twitter) captured the moment, showing many attendees expressing disapproval.
The crowd boos as JD Vance and his wife arrive to watch the symphony at the Kennedy Center.
— Laura Powell (@LauraPowellEsq) March 14, 2025
Proof that class doesn’t come from money, education, or age.pic.twitter.com/Kp0z5y2cbg
The couple attended a folk music performance by Nora Brown and Stephanie Coleman. However, their presence stirred controversy. Many in the arts community remain upset with the Trump-Vance administration. Recently, tensions have escalated over President Donald Trump’s decision to overhaul the Kennedy Center’s leadership.
Hamilton Cancels Show Over Trump’s Policies
Earlier this year, Trump dismissed the Kennedy Center’s Board of Trustees and named himself chairman. As a result, artists and performers voiced strong opposition. Announcing his decision on social media, he declared:
"At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture."
Following this announcement, the backlash grew. In response, the producers of Hamilton, the award-winning musical, canceled their performances. Producer Jeffrey Seller explained their decision, stating:
"Our show simply cannot, in good conscience, participate and be a part of this new culture that is being imposed on the Kennedy Center."
Trump Appoints Conservative Figures to the Board
Meanwhile, Trump continued reshaping the Kennedy Center’s leadership. Recently, he appointed Fox News anchors Laura Ingraham and Maria Bartiromo to the Board of Trustees. Shortly after, he shared the news on TruthSocial, writing:
"I am thrilled to announce that Laura Ingraham and Maria Bartiromo will be joining our Kennedy Center Board – This completes our selection."
Consequently, the move fueled more criticism. However, Trump defended his decision, adding:
“We look forward to restoring the Center to Greatness and ushering in America’s Golden Age. Together we will Make the Arts Great Again!”