Kennedy Center risks financial ruin without Trump’s name, Justice Department argues

A recent court filing from the Justice Department paints a dire picture of the Kennedy Center, warning that the institution could face financial ruin and demolition if President Donald Trump's name is not prominently displayed on the cultural landmark. The center's trustees have voted to add "Renovated and Restored By President Donald J. Trump" to the building's facade, with a possible addition of "Endowed by the Trump Kennedy Center Fund" and renaming the plaza in front of the Kennedy Center to honor the president.

However, Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex officio member of the Kennedy Center, is seeking to block these changes, arguing they violate the Kennedy Center statute and could deter donors. The Justice Department claims that without Trump's name, donors would "flee, financial contributions would dry up, and structural rehabilitation would stop," leaving the center "a financially insolvent facility in a crumbling building."

The center is already facing challenges, with attendance dropping since Trump's increased involvement. A federal judge will hear arguments on Beatty's request on Thursday.