Kennedy Center Warns of Bankruptcy Unless Trump's Name is Added

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts' board of trustees is warning of certain fiscal collapse within weeks and possible bankruptcy unless President Trump's name is added to the building facade.

A resolution expected to be considered by the board states that without appropriate recognition, Trump is unlikely to provide financial rescue or oversee renovations. Court documents filed by the Trump administration indicated that a Tuesday board meeting would focus exclusively on the necessary closure of the center, not on additional ways to honor Trump. Officials argue that adding Trump's name is necessary to secure his fundraising support.

The board previously voted to rename the facility after Trump and to honor him as the man who renovated and restored the center. The center faces a dire financial position and may be unable to afford payroll and maintenance within weeks. The board is expected to vote on closure and financial measures at a special meeting.

The center faces an estimated $23 million deficit. A 57-page internal document warned of certain fiscal collapse and urged trustees to close the main building as soon as Tuesday, citing safety risks. The Reach expansion and some off-site programming could remain open. A proposed rescue plan says President Donald Trump has offered to raise funds and oversee renovations but may require public recognition, including one of 10 possible facade inscriptions and a proposed Trump Kennedy Center Fund.

Those proposals come despite a federal judge’s ruling that only Congress can change the institution’s name and ordering Trump’s name removed. Rep. Joyce Beatty and others voice continuing legal and political opposition. The Washington Post reported the internal document on a Sunday. What the board will decide Tuesday, and whether any rescue terms proceed under the court ruling, remains unresolved.