Rep. Bob Onder Introduces the Make Entertainment Great (Mega) Act

Rep. Bob Onder (R-MO) has put forward the Make Entertainment Great (Mega) Act, which aims to honor the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The bill highlights Trump’s long-standing influence on American culture, noting that he has been involved in the arts for over 40 years, appearing in various forms of media from books and television shows to films and board games.

The announcement also emphasizes Trump’s popularity with both American and British audiences, particularly through shows like The Apprentice and its many spin-offs. His notable on-screen appearances include cameos in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Interestingly, he remains unique as the only U.S. president to have hosted Saturday Night Live—not just once, but twice.

In his capacity as chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board of trustees, Trump has expressed his commitment to maintaining the institution’s integrity. According to the release, his approach includes re-evaluating the Kennedy Center’s budget, which stands at around $234 million, as well as addressing its nearly $72 million debt accumulated from previous leadership choices.

Onder has also supported $256.7 million in funding for the Kennedy Center, part of a broader legislative package aimed at covering capital repairs, operational costs, and enhanced security measures.

“It’s hard to pinpoint a more significant cultural figure in the last 40 years than President Trump,” Onder stated. “His ability to engage with audiences across entertainment and media secured his place in American culture for decades.”

“I can’t think of a better emblem of American exceptionalism in arts and entertainment than President Trump,” he continued.

The Mega Act reflects a growing push among conservatives to reform the Kennedy Center, aiming to lessen what they perceive as left-wing influences. Recently, the House Budget Committee approved a measure from Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) to rename the Opera House in honor of First Lady Melania Trump, who serves as the honorary chairman of the Kennedy Center’s board.

Under Trump’s direction, the Kennedy Center has eliminated certain programs deemed inappropriate and dismantled its “social impact” division. This shift has led to a more faith-friendly programming focus, evidenced by a sold-out screening of King of Kings. Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell has committed to prioritizing quality programming.

Reactions from left-leaning celebrities have been quite vocal. Broadway star Patti LuPone expressed her disdain, suggesting that the “trumped” Kennedy Center should be dismantled. Similarly, Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and producer Jeffrey Seller have decided to withdraw their production from the venue, while actors in Les Misérables reportedly abandoned their performances in protest of the attendance of both President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.