The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is facing worsening financial and operational pressure after President Donald Trump took control of its board and became chairman in February 2025, according to internal financial assessments and planning documents reviewed by CNN. The records show the institution was already dealing with post-pandemic attendance and fundraising challenges, but sales declines accelerated after the new board was installed and Trump’s name was added to the building in December 2025. Gifts fell 42% and donation pledges dropped by more than 100% from January through April compared with the previous three months, while ticket sales declined from $57 million in fiscal 2024 to a projected $51 million in fiscal 2025. Preliminary figures show a deficit of more than $16 million for fiscal 2025, projected to widen to $23 million in 2026. The documents also show fundraising finished about $5.1 million below target, while personnel and operating-cost reductions offset some of the shortfall. Earlier reporting had projected a two-thirds decline in ticket sales and identified borrowing, the use of donor-restricted funds and unpaid pledges as additional pressures. The center is closed during an unresolved legal dispute over emergency repairs and possible renovations or demolition. A federal judge has ordered the institution to seek ways to remain open, rejected Trump’s effort to add his name to the building and required at least 30 days’ notice before demolition or new construction. Engineers have documented significant corrosion around exterior soffits, and the center is conducting an emergency egress assessment.