Vice President JD Vance faced a tumultuous reception at the National Symphony Orchestra performance at the Kennedy Center, with the audience erupting in loud boos and jeers as he took his seat alongside his wife, Usha Vance. Despite the commotion, Vance appeared composed, even smiling and waving amidst the disapproval. The disruption caused a delay in the symphony’s performance due to Secret Service security measures.

The backlash against Vance follows President Donald Trump’s recent overhaul of the Kennedy Center’s leadership, where he removed and replaced board members with his allies and Cabinet members, including appointing himself as the new chairman. Trump’s decision stemmed from the center hosting drag show performances, which he disapproved of. This move has sparked criticism and led to some stars and artists pulling out of scheduled performances at the center in protest against the new administration’s influence.

Among the new Kennedy Center board members are Usha Vance, Susie Wiles (Trump’s Chief of Staff), and Pam Bondi (Attorney General). The contentious atmosphere surrounding Vance’s presence at the orchestra performance underscores the ongoing tensions and divisions within the cultural institution following the recent changes in leadership orchestrated by the Trump administration.