President Donald Trump dismissed criticism on Wednesday after reports emerged that the cast of Les Misérables had boycotted his appearance at the Kennedy Center. “I couldn’t care less. Honestly, I couldn’t,” Trump said defiantly, entering the venue with First Lady Melania Trump. “All I do is run the country well.”

The event stirred controversy as rumors circulated that Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife would join the Trumps at the musical’s premiere, a performance led by understudies. Former Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell, now interim executive director of the Kennedy Center, denied reports of internal resistance, calling them “fake news.”

Outside, drag queens gathered in protest, reacting to Trump’s reshaping of the arts institution. Since taking over in February, Trump removed the Kennedy Center board and appointed himself chairman, installing loyalists like Grenell, Susie Wiles, and Pam Bondi. LGBTQ programs, including Finn and the Gay Men’s Chorus, were subsequently canceled or relocated.

Despite celebrity boycotts, Trump expressed confidence: “The bones of this facility are really incredible. We’re going to make it really great.”

Asked if he related more to Les Misérables’ Javert or Valjean, Trump deflected with a laugh. “That’s a tough one… You better answer that one, honey,” he said, as Melania remained silent.

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