Well, look at that — even the establishment media had to admit it: President Donald J. Trump made history at the Kennedy Center Honors, and he did it with a level of showmanship they simply couldn’t ignore. When Politico and the Washington Post — yes, those two — admit Trump did a solid job, you know it must’ve been one impressive night.
President Trump became the first sitting president ever to host the Kennedy Center Honors. And according to Politico Playbook, his performance was “not half bad” — which, coming from them, is basically a standing ovation. The Washington Post went even further, calling him “loose and funny,” noting his delivery was more focused and polished than his typical public remarks. Imagine that — Trump being charismatic and effective on stage… who could’ve guessed? (Everyone, actually.)
Trump took over as emcee after reorganizing Kennedy Center leadership earlier this year, putting his signature touch on an institution badly in need of it. He appeared on stage multiple times, recorded tributes, and even held court on the red carpet for nearly an hour. Citing icons like Johnny Carson and Bob Hope, he aimed for a relaxed and spontaneous style — and judging by the coverage, he hit the mark.
This year’s honorees? Handpicked by Trump himself, of course. Sylvester Stallone, Kiss, Michael Crawford, George Strait, and Gloria Gaynor — a lineup worthy of a president with real cultural instincts. Trump’s affection for the honorees, including longtime friend Stallone and theater legend Crawford, shaped the tone of the evening.
The tributes were pure Americana. Trump hailed Kiss as a “great rock and roll institution,” praised Strait as a voice beloved by “American patriots,” celebrated Crawford for “defining a role that will live forever,” and spotlighted Gaynor as a “musical culture shifter.” The show blended reverence with spectacle — exactly what a celebration of American culture should be.
The Washington Post even noted how much Trump genuinely enjoyed himself, introducing honorees and interacting with a star-studded crowd featuring Kelsey Grammer, Kurt Russell, Pete Hegseth, and Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Sure, Hollywood turnout was lighter than past years — shocking — but the people who did show up actually respect American culture, which is probably why the night went so well.
On Saturday, Trump hosted the official medal ceremony at the White House, awarding new gold medallions designed by Tiffany & Co., replacing the old rainbow design. At the State Department dinner, he called the honorees “some of the greatest of all time” and reflected on the importance of hosting the event — reportedly at the request of a TV network. Because of course they’d want Trump front and center.
Breitbart News caught up with Kiss on the red carpet. Gene Simmons praised the redesigned Oval Office as “terrific,” Paul Stanley talked about the American dream, and Peter Criss reflected on the history of the presidency — all while celebrating Trump’s leadership.
And the results? Record-breaking. The Kennedy Center raised an unprecedented $23 million, almost double last year’s total. That’s what happens when Trump takes charge — success follows.
The event will air December 23 on CBS and Paramount+, giving America a chance to see what even the mainstream media had to grudgingly admit: when Trump leads, the moment becomes unforgettable — and undeniably American.
