The John F. Kennedy Center, a performing arts venue in the US capital, is facing bankruptcy and the potential closure of its main building due to dire financial and physical conditions. The board of trustees has recommended that the main building be closed immediately due to costs.
Officials have warned that the institution is in a critical state and could be unable to make payroll or pay routine maintenance contracts within weeks. The venue is currently embroiled in a legal battle regarding planned closures and costly renovations.
In board resolutions made public Monday, officials selected by President Donald Trump have sought to place his name on the building's exterior. These board members suggest that adding the President's name could boost fundraising efforts, asserting that only President Trump can rescue the institution.
Board members are scheduled to vote Tuesday on whether to close the main building. Officials have further warned that the venue will be unable to pay its employees unless the President's name is put back on the building.