JD Vance, known for his cultural conservative stance, encountered a wave of disapproval during a National Symphony Orchestra concert at Washington's Kennedy Center on Thursday evening. As Vance and his wife, Usha, took their seats, the audience erupted in boos and jeers, overpowering the hall's announcements. This incident marks the latest episode in Vance's controversial involvement with Washington's cultural institutions.
In February, JD Vance was appointed to the board of the Kennedy Center by former President Donald Trump, alongside 13 other trustees. His appointment has been met with considerable opposition, particularly from artists and cultural groups who view his role as a threat to the center's creative and inclusive programming. Critics have accused Vance of attempting to suppress creativity and queer programming at the Kennedy Center, a charge fueled by the cancellation of a Gay Men's Chorus concert originally scheduled for May's Pride celebrations.
The controversy has also seen the withdrawal of the hit musical Hamilton from its planned 2026 run at the institution, with several individual artists canceling appearances. Drag artists have actively protested outside the Kennedy Center, rallying against what they perceive as attacks on their work and broader cultural expression.
Vance's comments on "cancel culture" have further inflamed tensions. During an on-stage interview at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in February, he criticized modern society for "crushing the spirit of young men." He elaborated on this perspective, stating:
"I think our culture sends a message to young men that you should suppress every masculine urge, you should try to cast aside your family, you should try to suppress what makes you a young man in the first place," – JD Vance
These remarks align with his broader cultural conservative views and his ongoing engagement in a culture war targeting Washington's cultural institutions.
The Kennedy Center's programming has become a battleground for these ideological conflicts. Vance’s association with Donald Trump, who has publicly declared his intentions for the center, adds another layer of complexity. Trump has been vocal about his vision for the institution, stating:
"NO MORE DRAG SHOWS, OR OTHER ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA – ONLY THE BEST." – Donald Trump
This stance has intensified debates over the direction and inclusivity of cultural arts in Washington.
Despite these controversies, JD Vance remains steadfast in his views. He has expressed surprise at the cultural differences he observes between America's elites and its poorer citizens, saying:
"Elites use different words, eat different foods, listen to different music – I was astonished when I learned that people listened to classical music for pleasure – and generally occupy different worlds from America’s poor," – JD Vance
His comments reflect a broader critique of societal divides and have further polarized opinions about his role at the Kennedy Center.